GOMRAD 
THREE 


.HvJ>S 


WILUAM  R.A.WILSON 


45J^4 


66 


Digitized  by  tine  Internet  Arciiive 

in  2007  with  funding  from 

IVIicrosoft  Corporation 


http://www.archive.org/details/comradesthreeOOwilsiala 


COMRADES  THREE 


Fran9ois  had  escaped  !  " 

[Page  116.] 


COMRADES 
THREE 

By 
WILLIAM   R.  A.  WILSON 

AUTHOE  OP  "a  hose  OF  NOBMANDY," 

"a  knot  of  blue,"  etc. 


D.   APPLETON    AND    COMPANY 

NEW    YORK 

I  906 


COPTBISHT,   1906,  BT 

D.  APPLKTON  AND  COMPANY 


Published  Beptember,  1908 


TO 

ROBERT,    HAROLD,   AND 

ARTHUR  GIBSON 


2138945 


CONTENTS 


I, — ^In  Which  a  Ship  Arrives  and  Two  Voya- 
gers Receive  a  Strange  Welcome  .  1 

n. — Is  Which  it  is  Discovered  that  Pierre 
Possesses  Commendable  Spirit  and  Jean 
Receives  a  Fright 15 

HI. — Shows  How  the  Recital  of  Warlike 
Deeds  Arouses  Ambitious  Desires  in 
THE  Minds  of  the  Hearers        ...     26 

IV. — ^In  Which  a  New  Acquaintance  is  Made 

AND  A  New  Life  Begun     ....     42 

V. — ^Devoted  to  Life  in  the  Woods  and  End- 
ing in  a  Conflict 54 

VI. — In  Which  a  Game  of  Hide  and  Seek  is 
Played,  and  a  Strange  Discovery  Made 
AND  A  Compact  Formed        ....     67 

Vn. — Contains  Some  Mysterious  Events  that 
Bode  III  for  the  Members  of  the 
Brotherhood 80 

Vlll. — ^The  Plot  Thickens,  and  Perplexities  are 

Met  Which  End  in  a  Surprise    ...     94 
vii 


CONTENTS 

CHAPTER  PAGE 

IX. — Describes    a    Long    Journey    and    Much 

Discouragement 109 

X. — In  Which  the  Courage  or  the  Captives  is 

Severely  Tested 122 

XI. — In  Which  a  Rash  Venture  is  Made  that 

Almost  Ends  in  Failure      ....  140 

XII. — Wherein  a  Danger  is  Escaped  and  Some 

Perplexities  are  Solved  .153 

XIII. — Begins  with  a  Fright  for  Jean  and  with 

A  Novel  Journey 166 

XrV. — Depicts    a    Glad    Home-coming    for    the 

Travelers  and  One  Other        .       .       .  178 

XV. — In  Which  the  Governor  Receives  an  Inso- 
lent Message  and  the  Two  Brothers 
Meet  with  a  Great  Surprise  .       .  190 

XVI. — Deals  Mainly  with  Military  Affairs. 
Shows  How  a  Trap  was  Sprung  and  a 
Battle  Won 205 

XVII. — Wherein  a  Traitor  is  Brought  to  Justice  216 

XVIII. — ^Depicts  a  Great  Surprise,  Which  is  Fol- 
lowed BY  AN  Unexpected  Tragedy.       .  228 

XIX. — A  Chapter  of  Merited  Reward  and  Hap- 
piness        ...  239 


▼Ul 


LIST   OF   ILLUSTRATIONS 


rxctva 

PAQB 


"  Fran9ois  had  escaped  !  "  .  Frontitpiee* 

"Three    Indians   .  .   ,   each   with    his    rifle    pointed 

straight  at  them" 108 

"They  passed  a  low  burning  camp  fire"  .       .       .176 

"A  bit  of  steel  flashed  in  the  air"     .       .       .       .236 


IX 


COMRADES    THREE 


CHAPTER  I 

IN     WHICH    A    SHIP    ARRIVES    AND    TWO    VOYAGERS 
RECEIVE  A   STRANGE  WELCOME 

"A  FINE  morning,  my  lads,  after  so  much 
storm  and  fog  I  Do  you  not  rejoice  with  me  that 
this  tedious  journey  is  almost  over?  " 

The  stanch  ship  L'Ardente  had  battled  hard 
for  her  royal  master,  Louis  XIV,  in  her  long 
and  arduous  voyage  from  the  busy  harbor  of 
La  Rochelle  en  route  for  Quebec,  the  proud 
capital  of  the  infant  colony  of  New  France. 
The  first  week  all  had  gone  well.  Favoring 
winds  seemed  to  warrant  the  hope  of  a  quick  and 
comfortable  passage  across  the  vast  watery 
plain  that  separated  the  Old  World  from  the 
New.  But  as  the  tiny  vessel  proceeded  on  her 
adventuresome  way,  the  mood  of  the  sea  al- 
tered.    Boisterous  gales  burst  suddenly  from 

1 


COMRADES  THREE 

the  north,  bringing  with  them  the  chill  gathered 
from  the  surface  of  countless  miles  of  ice  and 
snow.  The  water  changed  from  a  friendly  blue 
to  a  menacing  gray,  and  heaved  itself  against 
the  ship  in  angry  waves  that  drove  her  far  from 
her  course.  After  many  days  of  buffeting  and 
arduous  tacking  the  sturdy  L'Ardente  passed 
out  of  this  region  of  storm,  only  to  glide  into 
another  more  terrifying;  for  as  she  advanced 
upon  her  way,  she  encountered  her  old  enemy, 
the  fog.  At  last  even  this  mysterious  foe  was 
vanquished,  and  one  bright  day  early  in  June, 
1689,  the  dim  outlines  of  a  strange  coast  were 
sighted. 

The  passengers,  who  had  led  a  miseral3le  ex- 
istence a  large  proportion  of  the  voyage,  cooped 
up  in  their  stuffy  quarters  below  decks,  crowded 
to  the  rail  and  strained  their  eyes  to  catch  a 
glimpse  of  the  new  country  whither  they  were 
bound. 

The  speaker  was  a  man  past  middle  age,  whose 
mustache,  well  streaked  with  gray,  but  partly 
concealed  a  mouth  which  bore  a  gracious  smile, 

2 


A    STRANGE    WELCOME 

one  that  betokened  a  friendly  feeling  and  invited 
confidence.  He  had  been  gazing  with  the  rest  at 
the  faint  contour  against  the  sky  that  denoted 
land,  but,  tiring  of  this,  had  turned  to  observe 
his  fellow  passengers.  His  eyes  had  fallen  upon 
the  figures  of  two  boys  standing  a  little  apart 
from  the  crowd,  whose  wistful  glances  betrayed 
their  joy  at  the  journey's  progress.  A  strong 
family  resemblance  indicated  that  they  were 
brothers.  The  elder,  about  fifteen,  was  tall  for 
his  age,  with  a  sturdy  frame  which  gave  prom- 
ise of  development  into  a  splendid  physique  by 
the  time  the  owner  reached  maturity.  The 
other,  some  three  years  younger,  was  of  a  slighter 
build,  but  bore  an  air  of  gentle  manly  inde- 
pendence that  indicated  a  brave  heart  and  kindly 
disposition. 

The  larger  boy  looked  up  with  a  smile  of  rec- 
ognition, for  he  had  often  noticed  the  speaker 
during  the  voyage  and  had  returned  his  polite 
bow  when  they  chanced  to  meet,  although  they 
had  never  before  exchanged  any  words. 

"  Certainementy  monsieur,"  he  replied. 
3 


COMRADES    THREE 

"  One  does  not  naturally  enjoy  the  foretaste  of 
purgatory  that  we  have  received  during  the 
past  weeks.  I  shall  be  content  never  again  to 
cross  the  ocean  when  once  I  shall  put  foot  on 
land." 

"  Parbleu!  This  must  be  your  first  voyage. 
And  yet  I  wonder  a  little  at  your  evident  dis- 
gust at  the  sea,  for  I  have  observed  you  were 
both  excellent  sailors,  while  I  have  been  more  or 
less  sick  from  the  day  we  started.  This  is  my 
fifth  journey  across,  and  yet  I  am  always  mis- 
erable." 

"  Perhaps  it  is  because  we  come  of  a  sea- 
faring race.  Our  ancestors  for  many  genera- 
tions back  have  been  followers  of  the  sea,"  was 
the  proud  reply.  "  I  am  inclined  to  doubt,  how- 
ever, the  claim  of  my  brother  Jean  here  to  our 
family  name,  because  for  three  whole  days  he 
could  not  hold  up  his  head." 

"I  believe,  monsieur,"  spoke  up  Jean  with  a 
smile,  "  that  if  Pierre  had  always  looked  as  he 
really  felt  he  would  have  presented  a  miserable 
appearance  during  a  good  part  of  our  voyage. 

4 


A    STRANGE    WELCOME 

It  was  only  his  strong  will  that  prevented  him 
from  betraying  his  real  feelings." 

The  stranger  laughed.  "Whither  are  you 
bound,  if  I  may  be  permitted  to  ask  so  personal 
a  question ! " 

"  To  Quebec,"  was  Jean's  ready  answer. 

Pierre,  reassured  by  the  polite  demeanor  of 
their  new  acquaintance,  proceeded  to  enlighten 
him  stUl  further.  "  You  see,"  he  began,  "  my 
father  came  to  New  France  three  years  ago  to 
join  his  brother  in  a  trading  enterprise.  Our 
uncle,  being  an  officer  in  the  Colonial  Army,  was 
prohibited  from  openly  engaging  in  trade,  so  he 
advanced  a  sum  of  money  and  formed  a  partner- 
ship with  my  father,  who  was  the  one  actively 
engaged  in  the  business  of  buying  furs  from  the 
Indians,  collecting  and  storing  them,  and  ship- 
ping them  to  France.  A  year  ago  he  disap- 
peared, carried  off  and  murdered  by  the  sav- 
ages. Our  mother  was  heartbroken  at  the  news, 
and  never  recovered  from  the  shock.  She  died 
within  six  months.  Unfortunately  we  had  but 
little  money  and  no  near  relatives,  so  we  were  ad- 

5 


COMRADES    THREE 

vised  to  set  sail  for  Quebec  to  find  our  uncle,  who 
will  undoubtedly  aid  us  in  making  a  start  in  the 
New  World.  Jean  is  not  very  strong,  and  can- 
not do  much  work  yet,  but  I  can  work  enough 
for  two,"  and  as  he  spoke  Pierre  laid  an  affec- 
tionate hand  upon  his  brother's  shoulder. 

"  Bravo ! "  exclaimed  the  stranger,  who 
seemed  much  interested  in  Pierre's  narrative. 
"  You  have  courage  and  an  unselfish  heart,  a  rare 
combination  in  this  wicked  world,  one  that  will 
stand  you  in  good  stead  in  your  new  home.  But 
tell  me,"  he  continued  thoughtfully,  "  what  was 
your  father's  name  ?  I  live  in  Quebec,  and  have 
something  to  do  with  the  fur  trade.  Perchance  I 
knew  him ! " 

"  Oh,  monsieur ! "  cried  Pierre  eagerly,  "  per- 
haps you  were  his  friend.  His  name  was  An- 
toine  Bordeleau." 

"  Ah,  yes,  I  remember  him  well !  "  replied  the 
stranger.  "  Then  your  uncle  must  be  Captain 
Louis  Bordeleau." 

"Yes,"  said  Jean.  "He  was  considerably 
older  than  my  father  and  entered  the  army  when 

6 


A    STRANGE    WELCOME 

very  young.    We  have  never  seen  him.    He  does 
not  even  know  we  are  coming." 

The  stranger  was  silent.  He  looked  moodily 
off  across  the  water  for  a  moment,  then  eyed  his 
companions  in  a  hesitating  manner,  as  though 
he  were  about  to  tell  them  something.  He 
checked  himself,  however,  and  turned  his  gaze 
seaward  again.  Presently  he  spoke  in  the  same 
kindly  tone  as  before. 

"  I  am  indeed  glad  to  meet  the  sons  of  my 
fonner  friend,  whose  strange  disappearance  was 
a  much-talked-of  mystery  at  Quebec  until  your 
uncle  discovered  an  Indian  from  a  far  distant 
tribe  who  related  to  the  Governor  Frontenac 
himself  the  horrible  account  of  the  death  by  tor- 
ture of  a  certain  white  prisoner  at  the  hands  of 
his  people,  and  furnished  satisfactory  details 
that  proved  the  identity  of  the  unfortunate  man. 
I  shall  take  pleasure  upon  our  arrival  in  present- 
ing you  to  your  uncle.  He  is  perhaps  a  trifle 
— well,  eccentric,  but  I  have  no  doubt  you  will 
get  along  well  enough  with  him  and  he  will  do 
his  duty  toward  you."  '^~ 

3  7 


COMRADES    THREE 

The  next  day  the  ship  passed  so  near  the  shore 
that  the  passengers  were  able  to  distinguish  an 
occasional  fisherman's  cabin,  a  small  clearing 
covered  with  growing  grain,  or  the  clustered  huts 
of  an  Indian  village.  Soon  they  entered  the 
mouth  of  the  St.  Lawrence,  the  majestic  stream 
that  drained  a  continent.  Gradually  the  oppo- 
site shore  grew  nearer  as  they  ascended  until 
at  last,  one  beautiful  clear  morning  when  the 
voyagers  appeared  on  deck,  they  beheld  in  the 
distance  the  spires  and  roofs  of  the  noble  city 
of  Quebec,  that,  seated  like  a  monarch  upon  a 
rocky  throne,  ruled  all  the  fair  colony  of  the 
King  of  France. 

All  was  confusion  on  board  ship,  the  pas- 
sengers hastily  collecting  their  belongings  pre- 
paratory to  landing;  officers  bawling  orders  at 
the  top  of  their  voices ;  sailors  running  hither  and 
thither,  scrubbing  decks,  coiling  ropes,  and  get- 
ting the  vessel  into  a  trim  and  tidy  condition. 
At  noon  a  cannon  was  fired,  and  the  answering 
salute  reverberated  from  the  lofty  citadel.  The 
anchor  was  dropped  and  sails  furled,  and  the 

8 


A    STRANGE    WELCOME 

weary  passengers  realized  that  at  last  their  long 
journey  was  at  an  end. 

A  swarm  of  canoes  put  out  from  the  shore  and 
soon  surrounded  the  ship,  each  one  containing 
an  eager  gesticulating  owner,  who  offered  for  a 
small  sum  to  land  his  passengers  in  safety  to- 
gether with  their  personal  effects.  Pierre  and 
Jean,  each  with  his  little  bundle  containing  all 
that  he  possessed  in  the  world,  stood  watching 
the  confusion  with  curious  eyes.  They  were  in- 
terrupted by  the  familiar  voice  of  the  stranger. 

"  Well,  mes  amis,  are  you  ready  to  disembark 
and  begin  your  adventures  in  a  strange  land? " 
Not'  waiting  for  a  reply,  he  hailed  one  of  the 
canoes,  and,  directing  the  two  boys  to  descend,  he 
followed  with  their  bundles,  and  soon  all  three 
were  speeding  rapidly  over  the  surface  of  the 
water  toward  the  landing  place.  They  found 
this  to  be  a  rude  sort  of  pier,  which  was  crowded 
with  people  assembled  to  welcome  the  new  ar- 
rivals. Soldiers,  sailors,  fishermen,  women  with 
children  in  their  arms  or  tugging  at  their  skirts, 
a  few  Indians,  officers,  even  the  great  Frontenac, 

9 


COMRADES    THREE 

Governor  of  all  New  France — stood  ready  to 
offer  a  hearty  greeting  to  friends  and  strangers 
alike. 

Their  companion  passed  quietly  through  the 
crowd,  closely  followed  by  Pierre  and  Jean 
Bordeleau.  They  found  themselves  walking  up 
a  steep  street  that  ran  from  the  lower  town  to 
the  upper,  where  were  situated  the  public  build- 
ings and  most  of  the  residences  of  the  better 
class.  The  ascent  was  tiresome  to  their  stiffened 
limbs  after  so  many  weeks  of  inactivity  on  ship- 
board, and  they  stopped  when  halfway  up  to 
rest  and  look  back  upon  the  river  and  the  lower 
town,  now  lying  some  distance  beneath  them. 
After  a  few  minutes'  observation  they  continued 
the  ascent. 

When  the  upper  town  was  reached,  their  guide 
led  them  rapidly  along  a  street  until  he  stopped 
before  a  shop  bearing  the  name  of  Ormesson. 

"  Enter,  mes  amis,  and  welcome  to  New 
France.  You  have  told  me  your  names  ere  now, 
but  are  ignorant  of  mine.  This  is  the  home,  the 
shop  of  Jacques  Ormesson,  trader,  at  your  serv- 

10 


A    STRANGE    WELCOME 

ice.  Enter,  I  say,  and  do  me  the  honor  of  par- 
taking of  your  first  meal  in  the  Colony  beneath 
my  roof." 

They  obeyed,  and,  following  his  lead,  passed 
through  the  shop,  and  soon  found  themselves  in 
a  little  sitting  room  at  the  rear.  Their  host  ex- 
cused himself  a  moment  to  receive  the  greetings 
of  his  assistant,  a  young  man  whose  eyes  fairly 
danced  with  delight  as  he  beheld  once  more  the 
sight  of  his  beloved  master.  He  was  quickly 
dispatched  for  something  to  eat,  and  in  a  half 
hour  the  kind-hearted  trader  and  his  two  young 
friends  were  seated  about  a  generous  table,  at- 
tacking vigorously  the  food  provided,  with  tre- 
mendous appetites,  the  young  assistant  beaming 
joyfully  as  he  waited  upon  them. 

When  they  had  finished  Jacques  Ormesson 
poured  out  three  glasses  of  wine  and,  turning  to 
the  two  boys,  said : 

"  What  say  you  to  a  toast,  mes  braves  gar- 
gons'l  Here  is  a  pledge  to  our  friendship  so 
happily  begun ;  may  it  increase  with  the  passing 
of  the  days!" 

11 


COMRADES    THREE 

The  glasses  were  emptied,  Pierre  and  Jean 
murmuring  their  thanks.  "And  now,"  contin- 
ued their  host,  "  we  must  be  off  to  make  the  ac- 
quaintance of  your  uncle.  Ma  foil  I  do  not  rel- 
ish the  task ! " 

After  a  few  moments'  walk,  they  stopped  be- 
fore a  large  house  near  the  edge  of  the  town 
while  their  guide  knocked  sharply  for  entrance. 
They  were  admitted  by  a  decrepit  old  man,  who 
bowed  low  to  the  trader  and  stared  hard  at  his 
companions,  and  were  ushered  into  a  large  room, 
separated  from  another  by  huge  folding  doors. 

"  Tell  Captain  Bordeleau  that  Jacques  Ormes- 
son,  just  arrived  from  France,  wishes  to  see  him 
on  a  matter  of  importance."  Then  turning  to 
the  boys  he  added  in  an  undertone :  "  I  shall  go 
in  first  and  prepare  him  for  the  unexpected  news 
of  your  arrival.  I  shall  then  leave,  and  you  can 
meet  your  uncle  alone.  Do  not  fail  to  call  upon 
me  if  you  are  ever  in  need.  Remember,  I  am 
your  friend.  Come  to  my  shop  in  a  few  days 
and  report  how  you  are  getting  on.  Anyone  will 
direct  you  to  the  place." 

12 


A    STRANGE    WELCOME 

By  this  time  the  old  servant  had  returned  and 
signified  that  his  master  would  see  his  visitor  at 
once.  Opening  one  of  the  doors  into  the  adjoin- 
ing room  he  bowed  the  trader  in,  closed  the  door 
behind  him,  then  shuffled  off  into  another  part 
of  the  house  without  deigning  to  notice  the  two 
lonely  boyish  figures  at  the  farther  end  of  the 
room. 

Pierre  and  Jean  looked  about  them  wonder- 
ingly,  but  could  see  little  in  the  gloomy  apart- 
ment in  which  they  sat.  They  had  barely  begun 
to  distinguish  some  of  its  furnishings  when  their 
attention  was  attracted  by  the  sound  of  voices. 
They  recognized  the  low  tones  of  Jacques  Or- 
messon,  which  were  constantly  interrupted  by  the 
deeper  sounds  of  their  uncle's  voice.  Suddenly 
this  was  raised  in  a  volley  of  articulate  oaths, 
followed  by  a  torrent  of  angry  speech,  a  portion 
of  which  they  were  able  to  understand. 

"  Ten  thousand  devils !  "  came  clearly  to  their 
ears.  "  What  interest  have  I  in  Antoine's  brats  ? 
I  will  have  naught  to  do  with  them !  " 

Then  came  the  voice  of  the  trader  in  mur- 
13 


COMRADES    THREE 

mured  explanation,  followed  by  more  of  Cap- 
tain Bordeleau's  indistinct  wrathful  ejacula- 
tions. Finally  the  conversation  ceased.  A  door 
was  quietly  opened  and  closed  and  the  retreating 
steps  of  Jacques  Ormesson  were  heard  in  the  hall. 
They  were  alone.  No  friend  was  with  them  to 
be  present  at  the  coming  interview.  Pierre  and 
Jean  looked  at  one  another  in  silence,  then  at  the 
door.  The  knob  turned.  Jean  clutched  Pierre's 
arm  nervously.  The  door  swung  open,  and  Cap- 
tain Bordeleau  stood  before  them. 


14 


CHAPTER   II 

IN  WHICH  IT  IS  DISCOVERED  THAT  PIERRE  POSSESSES 
COMMENDABLE  SPIRIT  AND  JEAN  RECEIVES  A 
FRIGHT 

He  was  a  man  of  commanding  figure,  tall  and 
straight  as  an  Indian  bowstring,  the  result  of 
his  military  training.  At  a  second  glance,  how- 
ever, one  perceived  that  he  was  a  trifle  overheavy, 
his  flesh  flabby  and  lacking  in  firmness,  probably 
due  to  excessive  indulgence  in  meat  and  drink 
and  lack  of  sufficient  exercise.  His  hands  and 
features  betokened,  in  general,  good  birth  and 
breeding.  His  eyes,  however,  betrayed  an  igno- 
ble character,  for  they  were  not  those  of  a  frank 
and  honest  man.  They  seldom  met  openly  the 
gaze  of  one  to  whom  he  spoke,  preferring  to 
rest  upon  the  other's  neckcloth  or  a  button  of 
his  waistcoat ;  only  occasionally  did  they  seek  his 
face,  and  then  with  a  furtive  look.  In  their 
depths  there  lurked  a  constant  menace,  as  though 

15 


COMRADES    THREE 

their  owner  were  at  war  with  all  the  world;  a 
menace  that  would  blaze  forth  at  the  slightest 
provocation. 

He  gazed  silently  for  a  moment  at  the  two 
lads,  who  arose  at  his  entrance  and  stood  respect- 
fully before  him. 

"  Well,  so  you  are  my  brother's  children,"  he 
said  at  length  in  a  voice  of  great  depth  and  pe- 
culiar tone,  more  like  the  growl  of  an  angry  ani- 
mal than  of  human  origin.  "  What  brought  you 
here?" 

"A  ship,  monsieur,"  answered  Jean  inno- 
cently. 

Captain  Bordeleau  turned  quickly  upon  him 
with  a  snarl.  "What  have  we  here?  A  wit, 
eh?  I  hate  a  wit.  A  ship,  forsooth!  I  thought 
you  walked." 

Jean,  terrified  at  this  outbreak,  shrank  still 
closer  to  Pierre,  who  endeavored  to  cover  up  his 
unfortunate  remark  by  saying: 

"  Monsieur  Ormesson,  whom  we  met  on  the 
voyage,  may  have  told  you  that  our  mother  died 
a  few  months  ago,  leaving  us  entirely  alone  and 

16 


PIERRE    AND    JEAN 

almost  penniless.  You  were  our  nearest  relative, 
so,  after  selling  what  remained  of  our  household 
goods,  we  took  passage  for  Quebec." 

"  Expecting  me  to  support  you  in  idleness  the 
rest  of  my  life  and  make  you  my  heirs  when  I 
died  *?  "  was  the  sneering  reply. 

"  No,  monsieur,  hoping  only  that  for  our  fa- 
ther's sake  you  would  aid  us  in  getting  a  start 
in  the  New  World.  I  am  ready  for  hard  work 
now,  and  Jean  will  be  also  in  a  few  years  more." 

His  uncle  made  no  reply,  but  throwing  back 
the  heavy  curtain  allowed  the  light  to  fall  upon 
his  two  nephews,  then  looked  at  them  search- 

ingly. 

"  You,"  he  at  length  said,  addressing  Pierre, 
"  are  like  your  father,  and  are  a  true  Bordeleau. 
But  you,"  turning  to  Jean  with  disapproval, 
"  are  not.  I  presume  you  favor  your  mother, 
that  lowborn  country  wench  your  father  was 
fool  enough  to  marry." 

Pierre  flushed  red  and  controlled  himself  with 
difficulty.  "You  cannot  be  a  true  Bordeleau 
yourself,  monsieur,  or  you  would  know  that  it 

17 


COMRADES    THREE 

is  not  the  part  of  a  gentleman  to  insult  the  mem- 
ory of  a  woman  his  equal  in  birth,  and  evidently 
immeasurably  his  superior  in  heart  and  disposi- 
tion. If  that  is  your  feeling  toward  our  mother 
we  will  not  remain  with  you  longer,  but  will  seek 
the  protection  of  Monsieur  Ormesson,  who  I 
know  will  do  everything  he  can  to  aid  us.  Surely 
with  my  two  hands  ready  and  able  to  labor  hard 
we  need  not  starve,  even  in  New  France,"  and 
the  boy's  eye  gleamed  and  his  bosom  heaved  with 
suppressed  emotion. 

"And  have  it  noised  about  Quebec  by  my 
enemies  that  I  have  driven  you  forth,  refusing 
shelter  to  my  dead  brother's  children?"  Then 
after  a  moment  of  silence  the  man  continued, 
changing  his  tone  and  manner  into  something 
more  cordial. 

"  Ma  foi!  but  you  have  a  pretty  spirit  that  I 
like.  It  was  an  ungentle  speech,  for  which  I 
apologize  to  you  both.  Your  mother  I  never 
saw,  and  do  not  even  know  her  maiden  name. 
Doubtless  it  was  the  report  of  some  lying  tongue 
that  prejudiced  me.    Forget  what  has  been  said, 

18 


PIERRE    AND    JEAN 

I  pray  you.  Remain  with  me  and  let  me  show 
that  I  can  fulfill  my  duty  to  you  both.  Come, 
mes  amis,  there  is  my  hand.  True  gentility  is  as 
ready  to  accept  reparation  when  offered  as  it  is 
to  resent  injury  under  provocation." 

Pierre's  anger  vanished  at  this  manly  speech, 
while  the  fear  in  Jean's  heart  was  changed  to  a 
feeling  of  reassurance.  They  both  seized  their 
uncle's  hand  in  a  hearty  grasp  that  betokened 
their  ready  pardon  for  his  rough  words. 

"  Now  you  will  want  to  get  settled  in  your  own 
room."  Captain  Bordeleau  rang  a  bell;  when 
the  old  servant  appeared  he  ordered  him  to  show 
the  young  gentlemen  upstairs,  saying  that  he 
would  follow  shortly. 

The  boys  found  that  the  room  to  which  they 
had  been  assigned  was  in  the  second  story,  over- 
looking a  small  back  garden,  bounded  in  the  rear 
by  a  low  stone  wall.  The  room  itself  was  large, 
with  high  walls  and  massive  furniture  of  an  old- 
fashioned  but  good  Paris  make.  The  window 
was  large,  and  in  its  embrasure  was  built  a  low 
seat,  where  one  could  kneel  and  gaze  out  across 

19 


COMRADES    THREE 

the  roofs  of  the  neighboring  buildings  to  the 
broad  waters  of  the  river  and  the  wooded  shore 
opposite,  or  sit  and  read  with  one's  hand  resting 
easily  against  the  woodwork  and  the  light 
streaming  over  either  shoulder. 

Both  were  greatly  pleased  at  the  comfortable, 
almost  luxurious  surroundings.  They  were  in 
the  midst  of  a  more  detailed  examination  of  the 
furnishings,  commenting  in  a  low  tone  to  one 
another  at  what  they  saw,  when  Jean,  who 
chanced  to  raise  his  eyes  toward  the  door,  gave 
a  sudden  cry  of  terror,  and,  retreating  into  the 
farthest  comer,  tried  to  get  behind  the  bed. 
Pierre  wheeled  about  in  the  direction  indicated 
by  his  brother's  gaze,  and  started  back  in  spite 
of  his  greater  self-control,  hastily  putting  a 
large  chair  between  himself  and  the  door.  The 
object  that  was  the  cause  of  this  sudden  conster- 
nation was  a  human  face  peering  in  at  them.  A 
human  face  it  was,  but  entirely  different  from 
anything  that  either  of  the  boys  had  ever  seen 
before.  Jet  black  was  the  color  of  the  skin ;  the 
lips  were  red  and  thick,  very  much  protruded ;  a 

20 


PIERRE    AND    JEAN 

grinning  smile  revealed  a  double  row  of  immense 
glistening  white  teeth ;  while  about  the  head  was 
tied  in  a  sort  of  turban,  a  bright  red  cloth  dotted 
with  white. 

Before  another  movement  was  made  by  any- 
one in  this  strange  tableau  the  face  of  Captain 
Bordeleau  appeared  behind  the  strange  appari- 
tion. He  recognized  the  situation  at  a  glance 
and  burst  into  a  hearty  peal  of  laughter.  Enter- 
ing the  room,  he  seated  himself,  still  laughing. 

"  So  you  were  startled  by  what  must  have 
seemed  an  imp  from  the  realm  of  Satan  himself ! 
No  wonder,  perhaps,  if  you  have  never  seen  a 
black  man  before.  But  be  reassured,  he  would 
not  harm  a  fly.  It  is  only  Bolo.  Poor  Bolo  was 
an  African  slave  in  one  of  the  English  Colonies, 
who  was  carried  off  by  the  Indians  on  a  maraud- 
ing foray.  When  I  found  him  on  a  visit  to  one 
of  the  tribes  they  were  about  to  kill  him  by  tor- 
ture, believing  him  to  be  in  league  with  evil 
spirits.  They  had  already  cut  out  his  tongue. 
I  bought  him  of  their  head  chief,  and  he  has  been 
a  faithful  servant  ever  since.    He,  of  course,  can- 

21 


COMRADES    THREE 

not  talk,  but  understands  French  perfectly. 
Come,  Jean,  and  make  friends  with  Bolo.*  Bolo, 
these  are  two  new  masters  for  you.  They  will 
treat  you  kindly,  and  you  must  serve  them  well." 

Jean,  now  completely  reassured,  came  nearer 
to  the  negro,  although  he  still  viewed  him  with 
curiosity.  Bolo  grinned  amicably,  placed  his 
hand  over  his  heart  and  made  a  low  obeisance 
to  the  two  strangers,  touching  the  floor  three 
times  with  his  forehead  in  token  of  submission. 

During  the  evening  meal  Captain  Bordeleau 
made  every  effort  possible  to  promote  a  cordial 
feeling  between  himself  and  his  nephews,  and 
to  obliterate  all  recollection  in  their  minds  of  the 
unpleasantness  of  their  first  interview.  He  re- 
lated droll  escapades  of  his  early  service  in  the 
Continental  wars ;  narrated  vividly  numerous  ad- 
ventures in  the  Colonial  campaigns  against  the 
English;  and  held  his  hearers  spellbound  with 
blood-curdling  tales  of  incidents  of  Indian  war- 
fare. When  the  table  was  finally  cleared,  and 
each  sat  with  his  filled  wineglass  before  him,  he 
silently  filled  and  lighted  a  pipe  and,  after  blow- 

22 


PIERRE    AND    JEAN 

ing  a  few  preliminary  puffs  of  the  fragrant 
tobacco  above  his  head,  began  a  conversation  of 
a  more  personal  nature. 

"  I  have  been  thinking  over  the  matter  of  your 
future  since  your  arrival,  and  have  come  to  cer- 
tain conclusions.  When  your  father  died,  his 
share  of  our  last  trading  venture  was  not  nearly 
sufficient  to  pay  back  his  indebtedness  to  me  that 
had  accumulated  for  several  years.  But,"  he 
continued  with  a  deprecating  gesture,  as  he  saw 
that  Pierre  was  about  to  speak,  "  I  will  not 
charge  that  up  against  either  of  you.  Death 
pays  all  debts  as  well  as  heals  all  wounds.  I 
prefer  that  you  should  start  with  a  clean  balance 
sheet  in  your  new  life.  My  position  as  an  officer 
forbids  my  engaging  openly  in  trade,  hence  what 
I  have  accomplished  in  that  line  since  your  fa- 
ther's death  has  had  to  be  done  secretly.  My  idea 
is  to  fit  you  both,  so  that  you  can  eventually  take 
your  father's  place.  You,  Jean,  will  need  a  few 
more  years  at  school,  so  that  you  can  learn  to 
figure  correctly.  I  shall  place  you  in  the  care  of 
one  of  the  monks  from  the  Seminary  when  win- 
3  23 


COMRADES    THREE 

ter  comes  on.  In  the  meantime  you  had  better 
take  advantage  of  the  summer  weather  in  order 
to  grow  strong  and  hearty.  The  winters  here 
are  long  and  severe.  You,  too,  Pierre,  can  run 
wild  until  your  brother  begins  his  schooling. 
Then  I  shall  instruct  you  in  the  mysteries  of  the 
fur  trade.  Until  then  I  wish  you  both  to  learn 
as  much  as  you  can  about  the  woods,  the  wild 
animals  and  their  haunts — all  of  which  will  be  of 
service  to  you  in  your  future  business.  I  shall 
provide  you  each  with  firearms  and  place  you 
in  charge  of  some  competent  person,  who  will 
instruct  you  in  the  knowledge  of  woodcraft.  For 
the  first  few  years  your  services  will  not  be  worth 
much  to  me,  but  you  can  have  your  home  here. 
When  you  really  become  valuable  I  shall  arrange 
a  fair  remuneration  for  you  both." 

Pierre  and  Jean  both  broke  forth  into  expres- 
sions of  gratitude,  but  their  uncle  waved  them 
aside  with  a  smile. 

"Ma  foil  Would  you  expect  me  to  do  less 
for  my  own  flesh  and  blood?  Be  diligent  and 
faithful  to  me  and  I  shall  feel  fully  repaid.    And 

24 


PIERRE    AND    JEAN 

now,"  he  continued,  as  he  arose  and  lifted  his 
wineglass,  "  I  doubt  not  but  you  are  fatigued 
after  the  excitement  of  the  day  and  will  be  glad 
to  seek  your  rest.  Before  you  retire,  will  you 
not  pledge  with  me  this  beginning  of  our  friendly 
relations ;  may  they  continue  long !  " 

Pierre  drained  his  glass  manfully,  Jean 
touched  his  lips  to  his,  and  soon  they  were  both 
asleep,  dreaming  of  the  many  strange  experi- 
ences of  this  their  first  day  in  the  New  World. 
Jean  saw  now  and  then  the  grinning  face  of 
Bolo,  while  Pierre  moved  uneasily,  the  hidden 
menace  in  his  uncle's  eyes,  seen  at  their  first  in- 
terview, continually  recurring  to  his  dreaming 
fancy. 


25 


CHAPTER   III 

SHOWS  HOW  THE  RECITAL  OF  WARLIKE  DEEDS 
AROUSES  AMBITIOUS  DESIRES  IN  THE  MINDS  OP 
THE  HEARERS 

The  bright  rays  of  the  morning  sun  falling 
on  the  face  of  Pierre  caused  him  to  awaken  with 
a  start  and  look  for  a  moment  with  a  dazed  ex- 
pression at  his  strange  surroundings.  The 
quick  recollection  of  the  events  of  the  previous 
day  soon  reassured  him,  and  after  rousing  his 
brother,  he  leaped  from  his  bed  eager  to  meet 
whatever  adventures  his  new  life  might  bring 
him.  Together  the  two  lads  stood  before  the 
open  window  looking  out  over  the  city,  and 
watching  the  early  morning  mists  as  they 
swept  upward  from  the  surface  of  the  river  far 
below,  rapidly  dissipated  by  the  ever-increasing 
warmth  of  the  sun.  They  remained  there  some 
moments  looking  at  the  unaccustomed  scene,  and 

26 


AMBITIOUS    DESIRES 

breathing  in  the  intoxicating  draughts  of  cool, 
clear  air  that  sent  the  blood  tingling  through 
every  part.  Then  they  quickly  dressed  and  de- 
scended to  the  dining  room,  where  they  found 
their  uncle  just  seating  himself  before  a  plain 
but  substantial  breakfast.  He  greeted  them 
heartily,  inquired  politely  as  to  their  comfort 
during  the  night,  and  motioned  them  to  their 
places  at  the  table.  He  then  busied  himself  with 
some  papers  that  he  had  brought  with  him, 
apparently  oblivious  of  their  presence.  Finally 
he  arose  when  he  had  finished  his  meal  and  turn- 
ing to  Pierre  said : 

"  I  have  important  matters  that  will  occupy  me 
to-day,  so  I  shall  be  compelled  to  leave  you  to 
your  own  resources.  You  can  wander  over  the 
city  and  acquaint  yourself  with  your  future 
place  of  residence.  There  is  no  danger  of  your 
getting  lost.  You  will  not  find  Quebec  a  very 
large  place.  As  for  you,  youngster,"  he  ex- 
claimed, as  he  playfully  pinched  Jean's  ear  in 
passing,  "  be  careful  you  do  not  fall  off  the  para- 
pet of  the  fort  into  the  Lower  Town.    If  you  did, 

27 


COMRADES    THREE 

I  fear  there  would  not  be  enough  of  you  left  to 
pick  up  afterwards." 

When  Captain  Bordeleau  took  his  departure 
the  boys  finished  their  breakfast  at  their  leisure, 
and  strolled  forth  down  the  narrow  street. 
Pierre  was  for  making  a  voyage  of  discovery 
alone,  but  Jean  reminded  him  of  their  friend  of 
the  day  before,  and  suggested  that  they  accept 
his  hearty  invitation  to  make  a  call  upon  him  at 
an  early  date.  Pierre  good-naturedly  consented, 
and  after  making  a  few  inquiries  they  found 
themselves  again  entering  the  shop  of  the 
friendly  Jacques  Ormesson.  That  worthy  trader 
gave  them  a  cordial  welcome.  He  led  them  back 
to  his  little  private  room,  so  that  their  conversa- 
tion would  not  be  overheard. 

"  Tell  me,"  he  said  with  interest,  "  how  your 
interview  with  your  worthy  uncle  turned  out. 
He  was  much  disturbed  when  I  told  him  of  your 
arrival.  No  wonder,  perhaps,  for  he  is  an  old 
bachelor,  who  has  always  lived  by  himself,  and 
I  doubt  not,  when  I  announced  that  his  brother's 
children  were  come  to  live  with  him,  he  had 

28 


AMBITIOUS    DESIRES 

visions  of  a  couple  of  infants  that  would  require 
the  attention  of  a  nurse,  forming  a  constant  dis- 
turbing element  in  the  household.  But  when 
I  told  him  your  ages  and  what  a  manly  pair 
you  were,  he  cooled  down  considerably.  How- 
ever, I  did  not  envy  you  the  first  meeting  with 
him." 

Pierre  accordingly  gave  a  detailed  account  of 
the  spirited  scene  of  the  day  before,  omitting 
nothing.  His  friend  listened  attentively.  When 
he  came  to  the  insulting  speech  of  Captain 
Bordeleau  he  frowned  and  his  brow  darkened, 
but  when  he  heard  Pierre's  brave  answer  he 
broke  into  a  smile,  clapped  the  boy  on  the  shoul- 
der, and  exclaimed :  "Md  foi!  a  good  shot ! " 
When  the  narrative  was  finished  he  remained  a 
moment  or  two  in  deep  thought,  and  after  mut- 
tering, "  I  do  not  understand  his  plan.  Perhaps, 
though,  he  means  well,"  he  congratulated  them 
both  on  the  evident  good  impression  they  had 
made  on  their  uncle,  and  warned  them  that  they 
should  be  careful  to  merit  his  favor,  as  he  was  in 
a  position  to  be  of  great  assistance  to  them  if 

29 


COMRADES    THREE 

he  chose  to  do  so,  and  that  it  was  much  wiser  to 
have  him  for  a  friend  than  an  enemy.  Then, 
picking  up  his  hat,  he  continued: 

"  And  now,  mes  amis,  what  say  you  to  a  tour 
about  Quebec  with  me  for  guide?  I  am  at  lib- 
erty this  forenoon,  and  shall  be  delighted  to  go 
with  you." 

For  answer  Jean  tossed  his  cap  in  the  air  with 
delight.  Pierre,  on  his  part,  started  to  express 
his  thanks,  but  Ormesson  interrupted  him  by 
placing  an  arm  about  each  boy's  shoulders  in 
an  affectionate  manner,  and  saying  gravely: 
"  Nothing  I  can  do  for  either  of  you  will  be  other 
than  a  pleasure.  My  life  had  grown  hard  and 
empty  until  you  entered  it.  Already  you  have 
brought  into  it  a  joy  and  interest  I  have  not 
known  for  many  years.  My  greatest  grief  has 
been  that  my  girl  wife  did  not  leave  me  a  son 
before  she  died,  just  such  a  son  as  either  of  you. 
But  God  is  good.  Perhaps  I  was  unworthy  so 
great  a  gift." 

A  few  moments  later  they  were  on  their  way, 
their  friend  pointing  out  the  various  strange 

30 


AIVIBITIOUS    DESIRES 

sights  with  a  word  of  explanation  or  personal 
reminiscence. 

"  Yonder  in  the  distance  is  the  Intendant's 
Palace,  the  home  of  the  king's  officer,  who  is 
second  only  in  authority  to  the  Governor.  This 
side  of  it  you  will  see  the  spire  of  the  Hotel  Dieu 
or  hospital  where  the  good  nurses  care  for  the 
sick.  Near  at  hand  is  the  Jesuit  College,  while 
in  front  of  us  is  the  Cathedral." 

A  little  farther  on  they  came  into  an  open 
space. 

"What  square  is  this?  It  looks  as  though  it 
would  make  an  excellent  drilling  ground  for  the 
soldiers,"  cried  Jean,  his  face  beaming  with  in- 
terest. 

"  Parhleu!  but  you  have  made  a  good  guess. 
This  is  called  the  Place  d'Armes,  and  is  used  for 
the  purpose  you  supposed.  But  it  has  other 
uses,"  continued  Ormesson,  with  a  twinkle  in  his 
eye,  "  for  here  it  is  that  they  will  lead  you 
some  fine  morning  if  you  should  prove  a  traitor 
to  the  King,  and  stand  you  up  to  be  shot  at  by 
a  file  of  soldiers;  an  unpleasant  incident  that 

31 


COMRADES    THREE 

would  tend  to  mar  your  career  in  the  New 
World." 

Jean  gave  an  involuntary  shudder.  The 
trader  pointed  to  a  building  on  the  farther  side 
of  the  square.  "  That,"  he  said,  "  is  the  Fort. 
The  portion  facing  us  we  call  the  Chateau  St. 
Louis,  and  is  the  residence  of  the  Governor,  the 
famous  Comte  Frontenac,  as  wise  a  ruler  and 
as  valiant  a  soldier  as  the  Colony  has  ever  seen. 
I  shall  take  you  around  to  the  other  side,  which 
is  the  fort  proper,  the  crowning  fortification  of 
this  huge  rock  on  which  the  Upper  Town  is  built, 
and  the  first  object  visible  to  our  eyes  as  we 
ascended  the  river  yesterday." 

In  a  few  moments  the  three  were  standing 
upon  the  rampart  of  the  fort.  Immediately  be- 
neath them  lay  the  roofs  of  the  Lower  Town, 
some  two  hundred  feet  below,  from  whose  chim- 
neys the  smoke  lazily  arose  until  wafted  away  by 
the  upper  air  currents.  Farther  on  stretched  the 
placid  surface  of  the  St.  Lawrence,  deserted 
now  of  all  craft  save  the  good  ship  that  had 
brought  them  safely  across  the  seas.     Beyond 

32 


AMBITIOUS    DESIRES 

stretched  the  wooded  border  of  the  opposite 
shore,  a  mile  and  more  away.  Above  them  flut- 
tered idly  the  white  fleur-de-lis  banner  that 
announced  to  all  the  world  that  this  wide  ex- 
panse of  wood  and  river  and  mountain,  stretch- 
ing in  all  directions  for  countless  leagues,  be- 
longed to  the  King  of  France.  A  silence  per- 
vaded all,  broken  only  by  the  distant  muffled 
sounds  of  human  activity  in  the  Lower  Town  or 
the  barking  of  some  vagrant  dog  by  the  river's 
edge.  The  only  sign  of  military  life  was  a  soli- 
tary sentinel  slowly  pacing  his  lonely  beat  a 
hundred  feet  distant  from  the  little  group. 

The  three  surveyed  with  mingled  feelings  of 
awe  and  pleasure  the  beauty  and  grandeur  of  the 
scene.  At  length  Pierre,  whose  attention  had 
been  attracted  by  the  moving  soldier,  asked : 

"  If,  as  you  say,  the  Comte  Frontenac  was  such 
a  valiant  soldier,  why  did  the  King  visit  him  with 
disgrace  some  years  ago  by  recalling  him?" 

"  That,"  replied  Ormesson  feelingly,  "  was 
done  through  his  enemies  who,  together  with  his 
Intendant,  Duchesneau,  sent  lying  letters  to  the 

33 


COMRADES    THREE 

King,  alleging  that  the  difficulties  that  beset  the 
Colony  were  due  to  his  mal-administration.  That 
this  was  untrue  was  quickly  shown  by  the  fact 
that  under  the  new  governor,  La  Barre,  matters 
only  became  worse.  His  successor,  Denonville, 
brought  affairs  to  such  a  terrible  pass  that,  in 
despair,  the  King,  realizing  that  he  had  mis- 
judged his  faithful  servant,  besought  Frontenac 
to  return  once  more  and  attempt  to  bring  order 
out  of  the  chaos  that  had  arisen  since  his  de- 
parture." 

"  I  think  I  should  like  to  be  a  soldier  instead 
of  engaging  in  the  fur  trade,"  said  Pierre  medi- 
tatively, still  watching  the  sentry  as  he  paced 
up  and  down. 

"  It  is  a  hard  lot,  but  a  noble  one,"  exclaimed 
Ormesson  fervently.  "  What  can  be  nobler  than 
to  gain  this  fair  land  for  our  great  King,  teach- 
ing and  converting  the  savages,  opening  up  new 
territory  and  a  new  life  for  the  multitudes  of  un- 
fortunate ones  in  France  who  otherwise  can 
never  hope  to  achieve  anything  amid  the  narrow 
conditions  in  which  they  live.    Would  that  I  were 

34 


AMBITIOUS    DESIRES 

thirty  years  younger,  and  I  would  devote  all  my 
youthful  energies  in  the  King's  service  instead  of 
the  one  campaign  in  which  I  participated." 

"  Have  you,  then,  really  fought  against  the 
English  or  the  Indians  ?  "  asked  Jean  in  admira- 
tion and  surprise. 

"Yes,  last  winter.  It  was  my  first  and  last 
attempt  in  that  direction.  One  must  have  not 
only  a  brave  heart  but  a  strong  constitution  to 
withstand  the  privations  of  Colonial  warfare.  I 
am  fit  at  my  age  only  to  help  garrison  the  city 
should  it  ever  be  attacked." 

The  two  boys  were  now  eagerly  listening,  for- 
getful of  the  scene  before  them.  It  was  a  great 
treat  to  hear  the  recital  of  military  activity  in 
the  New  World  from  the  lips  of  one  who  had 
been  a  participator. 

"  The  trouble  began,"  continued  the  trader, 
who,  pleased  at  the  interest  displayed,  warmed  to 
his  subject  as  a  flood  of  recollections  entered  his 
mind,  "by  the  vacillating  policy  of  the  former 
Governor  Denonville.  The  redskins,  formerly 
kept  in  check  by  the  firm  grasp  of  Frontenac, 

35 


COMRADES    THREE 

quickly  realized  that  they  had  a  different  mas- 
ter to  deal  with.  The  atrocities  they  committed 
against  some  of  the  outlying  settlements  remained 
unpunished.  Urged  on  by  the  English  at  Al- 
bany, who  supplied  them  with  rum,  gunpowder, 
and  bullets,  they  grew  more  and  more  trouble- 
some, until  finally  they  assumed  an  attitude  of 
defiance  and  hostility  toward  the  French,  openly 
taking  their  furs  to  the  English  traders,  and 
often  professing  allegiance  to  the  King  of  Eng- 
land. They  even  approached  the  outskirts  of 
Montreal  and  Quebec  in  their  attacks,  killing 
many  of  the  French  settlers  and  taking  hundreds 
away  prisoners  to  be  tortured  and  eaten  at  their 
convenience." 

Pierre  scowled  and  murmured  "  The  wretch- 
es !  "  between  his  set  teeth. 

"  But  all  was  changed  when,  a  year  ago,  Fron- 
tenac  arrived  as  Governor,  displacing  the  ineffi- 
cient Denonville.  He  quietly  reorganized  the 
military  force  at  his  disposal,  secured  the  coop- 
eration of  some  friendly  Indians,  and  prepared 
for  action.    Realizing  that  the  savages  received 

36 


AJVIBITIOUS    DESIRES 

their  chief  support  from  the  English,  he  decided 
to  strike  a  decisive  blow  against  these  allies  of  the 
redskins.  He  accordingly  dispatched  three  ex- 
peditions :  One  against  the  settlements  in  Maine, 
another  against  those  in  New  Hampshire,  while 
a  third  was  directed  against  the  important  post 
at  Albany.  It  was  this  last  one  that  I  joined  at 
the  head  of  about  fifty  of  my  trusty  trappers  or 
coureurs-de-bois.  It  was  in  the  depth  of  winter 
that  we  started,  hoping  to  surprise  the  enemy, 
who,  we  believed,  would  never  dream  of  our  ven- 
turing forth  at  that  time  of  year.  We  passed 
over  the  frozen  surface  of  the  St.  Lawrence  and 
through  the  forest  on  snowshoes,  each  with  his 
head  enveloped  in  the  hood  of  his  warm  coat,  a 
bullet  pouch  at  his  belt,  a  hatchet,  knife,  and 
tobacco  pouch  at  the  waist,  while  in  our  hands, 
protected  by  huge  mittens,  were  our  trusty  guns. 
The  provisions,  supplies,  and  ammunition  we 
dragged  behind  us  over  the  snow  on  sledges. 
Finally  we  arrived  at  the  Kichelieu  River  and, 
passing  over  it,  soon  reached  Lake  Champlain. 
"In  about  two  weeks'  time  we  came  to  the  Hud- 
37 


COMRADES    THREE 

son,  not  far  from  Albany.  Here  we  decided  to 
attack  the  post  as  Schenectady  instead,  as  it  was 
almost  impossible  to  advance  farther  in  the 
direction  in  which  we  were  going.  A  thaw  set  in, 
and  we  were  compelled  to  wade  knee-deep 
through  the  half -melted  snow  and  ice  and  a  part 
of  the  way  through  swampy  ground." 

The  silence  about  them  had  deepened.  It  was 
the  noon  hour  when  the  inhabitants  of  the  city 
ceased  their  labor  and  partook  of  their  midday 
meal.  The  two  auditors  were  engrossed  so 
deeply  in  the  story  that  they  had  no  thought  for 
the  passage  of  time. 

"  Suddenly  the  weather  changed.  It  grew  bit- 
terly cold  and  a  heavy  snowstorm  fell.  We  faced 
westward,  and  advanced  rapidly  in  our  deter- 
mination to  reach  our  destination  before  the 
enemy  learned  of  our  approach.  We  were  all 
half -dead  with  hunger,  but  we  dared  not  stop  to 
prepare  food;  we  were  worn  out  with  fatigue, 
but  we  had  nothing  but  deep  snowdrifts  in  which 
to  rest ;  we  were  well-nigh  frozen,  but  we  feared 
to  light  a  fire  lest  it  betray  us.    The  storm  in- 

38 


AMBITIOUS    DESIRES 

creased,  so  that  we  could  see  but  a  few  yards 
ahead  of  us  as  we  stumbled  on.  At  length  night 
fell  just  as  our  scouts  descried  the  palisade  that 
surrounded  the  village. 

"  About  eleven  o'clock  we  approached  the  two 
gates.  Imagine  our  surprise  to  find  them  open, 
and  in  front  of  each  stood  a  snow  man  with  a 
stick  in  his  hand.  "  These  had  been  made  in  fun 
by  the  soldiers  guarding  the  gates,  who,  never 
dreaming  of  a  surprise,  had  retired  to  warmer 
quarters  on  account  of  the  storm.  Rapidly  we 
entered  the  village,  keeping  silence  until  every 
house  was  surrounded.  Then,  at  a  given  signal, 
our  Indians  raised  their  war  whoops  and  attacked 
the  doors  with  their  hatchets,  while  we  fired  in 
at  the  windows.  There  was  little  resistance  save 
at  the  blockhouse,  where  we  met  with  a  stubborn 
fight.  But  finally  it  was  captured,  its  defenders 
killed,  and  the  building  set  on  fire.  Fires  were 
soon  built,  and  we  were  able  for  the  first  time 
in  two  days  to  warm  our  stiffened  hands.  A 
guard  was  set  and  we  entered  the  houses,  satis- 
fied our  ravenous  appetites,  and  sought  much- 
4  39 


COMRADES    THREE 

needed  sleep.  The  next  day  we  set  out  with 
nearly  a  hundred  prisoners  on  our  rietum  march, 
before  the  news  of  our  attack  could  reach  Albany 
and  reenforcements  be  sent.  The  whole  town 
was  fired,  and  by  the  light  of  the  burning  build- 
ings we  started  homeward.  As  a  number  of  days 
passed  without  any  signs  of  pursuit  we  became 
somewhat  careless,  until,  when  we  had  almost 
reached  Montreal,  we  were  attacked  at  night  by  a 
small  party  of  English  from  Albany  who  had 
followed  on  our  trail,  and  some  fifteen  of  our 
number  killed.  This  was  the  only  mishap,  and 
we  finally  arrived  at  Quebec  in  safety  after  hav- 
ing inflicted  a  terrible  blow  upon  the  English  that 
would  tend  for  years  to  come  to  keep  them  from 
interfering  with  our  fur  trade,  and  would  strike 
terror  into  the  souls  of  the  redskins  who  had 
wavered  in  their  allegiance  to  the  French." 

The  two  boys  breathed  deeply  when  their  com- 
panion finished,  and  remained  silent  on  their  way 
home.  Late  that  night,  as  they  were  falling 
asleep,  Pierre  whispered  to  his  brother  the  de- 
termination that  he  had  made  during  the  day. 

40 


AMBITIOUS    DESIRES 

"  As  soon  as  I  am  grown  I  shall  become  a  sol- 
dier and  fight  against  the  English  and  the  cruel 
savages."  He  was  much  astonished  at  Jean's 
sleepy  answer :  "  So  am  I.  But  I  am  not  going 
to  wait  that  long." 


41 


CHAPTER   IV 

IN    WHICH    A    NEW    ACQUAINTANCE    IS    MADE    AND 
A  NEW  LIFE  BEGUN 

The  next  morning  the  two  boys  breakfasted 
alone.  When  they  had  finished  they  amused 
themselves  for  an  hour  or  more  watching  the 
passers-by  from  the  windows  of  the  large  front 
room  into  which  they  had  been  ushered  on  their 
first  arrival,  and  talking  over  in  a  low  tone  the  tale 
of  warlike  adventure  they  had  listened  to  the  day 
before.  They  were  interrupted  in  this  by  the 
sight  of  Captain  Bordeleau  walking  rapidly 
along  the  street  toward  the  house.  "With  him  was 
a  half -grown  youth  of  about  seventeen,  tall  and 
lithe,  whose  free  swinging  stride,  bronzed  cheek, 
and  well-developed  chest  would  have  betrayed 
the  woodsman  had  not  his  attire  made  the 
fact  certain.  His  garments  were  those  of  the 
trapper,  or  coureur-de-bois  as  they  were  termed, 

42 


A    NEW    ACQUAINTANCE 

of  rough,  coarse  material,  well  calculated  to 
resist  the  attack  of  brier  and  thorn,  the  pelt- 
ing of  the  rain,  and  the  fury  of  the  wind, 
which  even  in  the  summer  storms  was  often  chill 
and  penetrating.  His  cap  was  of  fur,  from  one 
side  of  which  the  broad  tail  feather  of  some  bird 
of  prey  projected  upward  and  backward,  giving 
a  jaunty  air  to  its  otherwise  heavy  appearance. 

A  moment  later  the  two  had  entered  the  room. 
Without  further  preamble  Captain  Bordeleau  in- 
troduced his  companion  to  the  two  boys. 

"  This  is  Francois  Ledun,  son  of  a  censitaire 
whose  farm  lies  about  a  league  from  Quebec. 
He  is  well  versed  in  all  the  mysteries  of  wood- 
craft and  hunting,  having  lived  in  the  forest  all 
his  life.  I  have  engaged  him  to  act  as  your  com- 
panion for  the  summer  to  instruct  you  along  the 
lines  that  will  be  useful  to  you  later  on  in  the  fur 
trade.  He  will  live  at  home,  but  come  to  the 
city  every  day.  After  a  little  he  will  take  you 
on  short  expeditions,  in  order  that  you  may  fa- 
miliarize yourselves  with  this  new  method  of  liv- 
ing.   I  trust  that  you  will  prove  yourselves  apt 

43 


COMRADES    THREE 

pupils.  I  have  instructed  him  to  provide  you 
with  the  necessary  weapons  and  clothing." 

With  these  words  and  a  friendly  wave  of  the 
hand  he  disappeared  in  his  private  room,  leaving 
the  three  youths  together. 

FrauQois  stood  awkwardly  fingering  his  cap  in 
embarrassed  silence.  His  solitary  outdoor  ex- 
istence had  tended  to  make  him  diffident  in  the 
presence  of  strangers.  The  two  brothers  eyed 
him  for  a  time,  themselves  bashful  before  one 
whose  life  had  been  placed  in  such  a  different 
sphere  from  their  own.  Their  first  impression 
of  him  was,  however,  wholly  favorable.  His 
frank  look,  keen  eye,  and  friendly  smile,  together 
with  an  enviable  strength  of  frame  and  glow  of 
perfect  health,  were  undoubtedly  attractive,  and 
gave  promise  of  a  long  and  agreeable  compan- 
ionship. 

Pierre  was  the  first  to  make  an  advance.  Ap- 
proaching the  stranger  he  extended  his  hand  and 
said  simply: 

"I  am  glad  to  meet  you,  Francois.  I  am 
Pierre  Bordeleau,  and  this  is  my  brother  Jean." 

44 


A    NEW    ACQUAINTANCE 

Francois's  confusion  vanished,  and  he  returned 
their  hearty  grasp.  Soon  all  three  were  convers- 
ing as  easily  as  though  they  had  been  old  ac- 
quaintances. It  was  the  first  time  that  the  coun- 
try-bred youth  had  ever  met  anyone  of  his  own 
age  who  had  come  across  the  seas  from  that 
strange  motherland  he  had  heard  and  read  so 
much  about.  Their  eyes  had  gazed  upon  the  noble 
cities,  the  busy  streets  and  wharves,  the  hurry- 
ing crowd,  and  all  the  splendors  of  the  older 
civilization.  They  had  perhaps  beheld  famous 
generals  coming  home  from  foreign  wars  vic- 
torious, and  had  heard  the  welcoming  shouts  of 
the  enthusiastic  populace.  Perchance  even  they 
had  seen  some  members  of  that  mysterious  circle 
who  lived  their  exalted  lives  in  close  contact  with 
that  glorious  personality  the  King.  The  two 
brothers  on  their  part  looked  with  curiosity  upon 
one  who  knew  the  secrets  of  the  forest  and  the 
trail,  who  had  met  the  wild  beasts  in  their  na- 
tive haunts,  who  had  seen  the  cruel  and  crafty 
savages,  and  perhaps  had  had  encounters 
with  them.     That  some  such  thoughts  were  in 

45 


COMRADES    THREE 

their  minds  was  evidenced  by  their  first  ques- 
tions. 

"  Did  you  ever  kill  a  bear,  an  old  one,  I  mean, 
not  a  cub  ?  "  was  Jean's  eager  inquiry. 

"  Yes,  before  I  was  your  age,"  was  the  quiet 
answer.  Jean's  eyes  opened  wider  in  admiration. 
"How?" 

"  By  putting  a  bullet  where  it  would  do  the 
most  good,"  replied  Francois,  laughing  at  his 
companion's  astonishment. 

Pierre,  although  surprised,  felt  that  it  would 
not  do  to  appear  overawed. 

"  Pooh !  that  would  be  easy.  If  you  got  be- 
hind a  tree,  a  bear,  however  big,  could  not  hurt 
you.  All  you  would  have  to  do  would  be  to  shoot 
him  before  he  got  too  near.  Now  a  redskin  is 
another  matter.  Have  you  ever  shot  an  In- 
dian?" 

"  No,"  was  Francois's  answer,  delivered  in  a 
serious  tone.  "  As  you  say,  that  is  another  mat- 
ter. And  I  hope  I  shall  never  have  to.  This  scar 
on  my  forehead  was  made  by  an  Indian  arrow 
when  I  was  a  baby.    My  father  was  barely  able 

46 


A    NEW    ACQUAINTANCE 

to  reach  a  place  of  safety  with  his  family  in  one  of 
their  attacks.  But  I  should  not  be  afraid  to  try 
if  it  were  necessaiy,"  he  added  bravely. 

Thus  they  talked  on,  Francois  good-naturedly 
answering  the  eager  questionings  of  his  two  com- 
panions. At  last  he  stopped  as  the  distant  bell 
from  the  clock  at  the  Chateau  was  heard  chiming 
the  hour. 

"  Your  uncle  told  me  to  take  you  without  delay 
and  see  that  you  were  properly  fitted  out.  Will 
you  not  come  with  me  now?  " 

The  two  boys  gave  eager  assent,  and  soon  all 
were  standing  in  a  shop  before  a  bewildering  col- 
lection of  clothing,  weapons,  and  the  thousand 
and  one  things  that  made  up  the  stock  of  the 
Quebec  tradesmen.  Two  suits  were  quickly  se- 
lected, and  found  to  be  satisfactory.  Jean  spied 
a  cap  almost  identical  with  that  belonging  to 
FrauQois,  which  he  chose,  promising  himself  to 
select  just  such  a  feather  as  he  wore  from  the 
first  large  bird  that  he  killed.  A  good  heavy 
gun  was  taken  by  Pierre,  while  a  lighter  piece 
was  selected  for  Jean.    Powder  horns  and  bul- 

47 


COMRADES    THREE 

let  pouches  quickly  followed.  At  Frangois's 
suggestion  two  hunting  knives  were  bought. 
Jean  chose  one  with  a  broad,  keen  blade  that 
would  prove  admirable  for  slitting  the  throats 
of  deer  or  moose  or  skinning  their  slain  car- 
casses, while  Pierre  picked  out  one  the  shape 
of  a  dirk,  whose  sharp  point  promised  well  for 
a  hand-to-hand  conflict  with  an  Indian.  A  quan- 
tity of  powder  and  bullets  was  also  bought,  and 
the  purchases  taken  home. 

After  dinner  Jean  and  Pierre  hastily  donned 
their  new  clothes  and  eagerly  assented  to  Fran- 
cois's proposal  that  they  should  take  their  first 
lesson  in  marksmanship.  Passing  out  of  the  city, 
they  followed  the  river  bank  for  a  half  a  league 
until  they  came  to  a  level,  half -cleared  spot  that 
seemed  suitable  for  the  purpose.  Francois  then 
instructed  them  in  the  proper  method  of  loading 
their  guns,  and  pointing  out  a  knot  on  a  tree 
some  fifty  yards  away  as  a  target  took  steady 
aim  and  fired.  On  going  to  the  spot  they  dis- 
covered the  bullet  firmly  embedded  in  the  wood 
in  the  very  center  of  the  knot. 

48 


A    NEW    ACQUAINTANCE 

"  That  did  not  look  very  diflBcult,"  cried  Pierre. 
"  Although  I  have  never  shot  a  gun  before  I  be- 
lieve I  could  do  nearly  as  well." 

Going  back  to  their  original  standing  place  he 
raised  his  weapon.  But  somehow  when  he  at- 
tempted to  sight  along  the  barrel,  as  he  had  seen 
FranQois  do,  he  found  that  the  muzzle  seemed 
possessed,  for  it  absolutely  refused  to  stay  still, 
but  wabbled  about  in  an  unaccountable  manner. 
Finally  he  thought  he  had  the  mark  exactly 
covered  and  pulled  the  trigger.  A  twig  fall- 
ing from  a  limb  of  the  tree  some  ten  feet 
higher  than  the  knot  showed  how  far  the  bullet 
had  gone  astray.  He  looked  at  his  companions 
with  a  mortified  air,  then  laughed.  "  Had 
that  been  a  redskin  I  should  probably  never 
have  had  the  opportunity  of  making  a  second 
shot,"  he  exclaimed.  "Now,  Jean,  it  is  your 
turn." 

Jean,  who  to  tell  the  truth  was  a  little  afraid 
of  his  gun,  took  as  careful  aim  as  he  could,  shut 
his  eyes,  and  fired.  His  bullet  struck  the  tree 
trunk  a  yard  below  the  knot. 

49 


COMRADES  THREE 

Pierre,  a  little  nettled  at  being  thus  beaten  by 
his  younger  brother,  turned  to  Francois. 

"  Your  shot  was  all  very  fine,  but  when  you 
are  hunting  live  things  they  will  not  stand  still 
for  you  to  shoot  at.  Can  you  do  as  well  with  a 
moving  object?" 

For  reply  Francois  pointed  to  a  black  speck 
in  the  sky.  As  they  waited  it  became  larger,  and 
they  soon  perceived  it  to  be  a  hawk,  soaring 
lazily  in  the  air  far  above  them.  He  waited 
until  it  was  directly  overhead  before  he  raised 
his  gun.  The  sound  of  its  report  had  scarcely 
subsided  when  the  bird  struck  the  ground  at  their 
feet,  dead  with  its  head  pierced  by  the  swift 
bullet. 

Pierre  ran  up  to  their  new-made  friend  and 
seized  his  hand.  "  Forgive  me,  Frangois,"  he 
exclaimed  with  enthusiasm,  "  for  being  envious 
of  your  skill.    It  is  wonderful !  " 

Frangois  reddened  with  pleasure.  "  That  is 
nothing,"  he  said ;  "  in  time  you  should  be  able  to 
do  as  well  as  I." 

The  next  week  or  two  were  spent  in  daily  care- 
50 


A    NEW   ACQUAINTANCE 

ful  practice,  in  which  a  great  deal  of  powder  and 
shot  was  wasted,  but  with  results  highly  gratify- 
ing to  all  parties.  Gradually  Pierre  obtained 
better  and  better  control  over  his  gun,  while  even 
Jean  learned  not  to  flinch  when  he  pulled  the 
trigger.  Their  sport  was  sometimes  varied  by 
instructions  in  the  art  of  canoeing.  The  shallow, 
still  waters  of  the  St.  Charles,  that  emptied  into 
the  St.  Lawrence  just  below  Quebec,  afforded  an 
excellent  place  for  the  learning  of  this  very 
necessary  portion  of  a  woodsman's  education. 
.  Extended  journeys  would  be  possible  only  by 
means  of  these  frail  craft.  Long  swift  rivers 
and  their  tortuous  tributary  streams  would  be 
thus  made  easily  navigable,  and  rapid  progress 
to  or  from  the  wilderness  assured. 

The  two  brothers  were  excellent  swimmers, 
and  were  proud  of  their  skill.  It  was  often  called 
into  requisition,  for  both  of  them  in  their  atten- 
tion to  the  elusive  paddle  stroke,  or  eagerness  to 
urge  the  canoe  to  a  higher  rate  of  speed,  were 
apt  to  forget  the  necessity  of  preserving  a  careful 
balance,  with  frequent  disastrous  results.    But 

51 


COMRADES    THREE 

they  swam  cheerfully  to  shore  with  their  over- 
turned craft,  drying  themselves  beside  an  impro- 
vised camp  fire,  and  returning  again  with  un- 
abated zeal  to  the  labor  of  mastering  the  secret. 
Sometimes  after  several  successive  duckings 
they  ran  home  at  a  dogtrot,  tired  and  soaked,  but 
happy. 

At  length  Francois  announced  that  they  had 
made  sufficient  progress  in  their  aquatic  and 
hunting  labors  to  warrant  their  taking  a  week^s 
trip  into  the  interior,  where  they  could  put  into 
practice  the  skill  they  had  already  acquired,  and 
learn  additional  mysteries  from  the  woods. 

Great  was  their  excitement  at  this  prospect. 
All  their  previous  efforts  had  been  merely  pre- 
paratory. Now  they  were  to  obtain  a  real  taste 
of  the  bold,  free,  roving  life  of  the  silent 
places.  All  civilization  was  to  be  left  behind, 
and  the  lonely  forest  was  to  be  their  temporary 
home.  What  adventures  might  they  not  encoun- 
ter, what  strange  experiences  would  be  theirs! 
A  canoe  was  procured  and  carefully  laden  with 
a  stock  of  provisions  and  ammunition,  and  one 

52 


A   NEW   ACQUAINTANCE 

bright  July  morning  they  pushed  off,  entering 
the  St.  Charles  just  as  the  sun's  first  rays  tipped 
the  flagstaff  of  the  fort.  Gradually  the  city  re- 
ceded from  their  view,  until  finally  it  was  lost 
completely  behind  a  bend  of  the  river,  and  they 
were  alone  in  the  great  wilderness. 


53 


CHAPTER  V 

DEVOTED   TO   LIFE   IN    THE   WOODS   AND   ENDING    IN 
A  CONFLICT 

A  NEW  world  unfolded  itself  before  the  eyes 
of  the  two  brothers,  a  world  strange,  boundless, 
fascinating.  Beneath  and  about  them  was  the 
rushing  swirl  of  the  hurrying  stream  against 
whose  resisting  current  their  eager  paddle 
strokes  urged  the  birch-bark  craft.  On  either 
side  stretched  the  deep-shadowed  silence  of  the 
primeval  forest  in  whose  depths  lurked  the  wild 
dwellers  of  the  hidden  places,  who  seemed  to  the 
boys'  active  imagination  to  glare  out  at  them  from 
the  gloom  in  resentful  surprise  at  this  unwar- 
ranted intrusion  upon  their  domains.  A  faint 
moaning  from  the  wooded  depths  as  the  breeze 
stirred  the  tree  limbs  was  the  only  sound  that 
reached  their  ears  from  the  land,  a  sound  that 
might  easily  have  been  interpreted   as   being 

54 


LIFE    IN    THE    WOODS 

eitlier  a  threatening  murmur  of  disapproval  at 
their  advent  or  a  gentle  note  of  welcome,  wooing 
them  to  leave  the  bright  sunlight  of  the  stream 
and  seek  the  hidden  mysteries  of  the  cool 
shadows. 

Bird  life  was  the  only  portion  of  animate  na- 
ture that  was  visible.  Crows  cawed  harshly 
from  their  perches  on  the  gnarled  and  naked 
branches  of  blasted  pines  near  the  water's  edge 
or  flapped  their  huge  black  wings  noisily  in  their 
clumsy  flight  across  the  stream.  The  tiny  bod- 
ies of  small  birds  flashed  for  an  instant  as  they 
lightly  skimmed  the  surface  of  the  water,  then 
disappeared  as  rapidly  as  they  had  come. 

A  sudden  turn  of  the  river  showed  them  the 
quick  dive  of  a  gigantic  hawk  as  he  drove  his 
claws  deeply  into  the  body  of  an  unwary  fish 
and  rose  heavily  into  the  air  with  his  glistening 
burden,  uttering  a  glad,  free  cry  of  triumph. 
Up  and  up  above  the  forest  tops  he  mounted,  bent 
on  carrying  his  prey  to  some  far-off  nest.  As  the 
boys  watched  in  admiration  the  strong  motion 
of  his  powerful  wings  they  heard  a  harsh,  sharp 
5  ■     55 


COMRADES    THREE 

scream  of  anger  and  saw  an  eagle,  who,  unno- 
ticed, had  been  circling  about  in  the  upper  air, 
drop  with  marvelous  rapidity  and  directness 
upon  the  brave  hunter  of  the  stream.  The  hawk 
heard  the  scream  and  saw  the  huge  body  of  his 
foe  coming  down  upon  him  with  the  speed  and 
accuracy  of  a  bullet.  Uttering  a  cry  of  mingled 
fear  and  rage  he  dropped  his  prey  and  fled. 
The  eagle,  content  at  having  made  him  surren- 
der his  prize,  continued  his  rapid  downward 
course  until  he  overtook  the  falling  fish  and 
gripped  it  with  his  talons.  Then  with  a  mighty 
effort  his  descent  was  stayed  and  he  rose  proudly 
and  grandly  with  magnificent  sweep  of  wing, 
finally  settling  upon  a  distant  branch,  there  to 
enjoy  his  stolen  meal  in  comfort. 

The  human  spectators  watched  the  spirited 
scene  breathless  with  interest,  paddling  mechan- 
ically while  their  eyes  were  raised  aloft.  When 
all  was  over  they  resumed  their  energetic  work 
in  silence,  but  a  thought  entered  the  minds  of  all 
three:  here  was  a  world  where  might  and  cun- 
ning alone  prevailed;  where  the  strong  preyed 

56 


LIFE    IN    THE    WOODS 

upon  the  weak ;  where  each  succeeding  victor  was 
in  turn  vanquished.  And  now  they  had  come, 
men,  lords  of  the  earth,  with  their  human  skill 
and  ingenuity  to  conquer  even  the  mightiest  of 
this  brute  creation.  A  fierce  throb  of  joy  tin- 
gled through  their  veins,  the  joy  of  living  and 
achieving,  while  the  desire  of  conquest  thrilled 
them  with  its  strange  pervasive  power  and 
nerved  them  for  the  accomplishment  of  brave 
deeds. 

An  hour  before  sunset  a  point  on  the  river  was 
reached  that  struck  Frangois's  fancy  as  being  a 
suitable  place  for  a  camp.  They  accordingly 
landed.  A  grassy  spot  lying  between  the  river 
and  the  shadowy  woods  was  chosen,  and  they 
quickly  set  to  work  to  make  their  preparations 
for  the  night.  Francois  ordered  the  others  to 
collect  a  large  pile  of  firewood  while  he  unloaded 
the  canoe.  When  this  was  accomplished  the 
sunlight  had  already  begun  to  fade.  A  fire  was 
then  lighted,  and  soon  the  three  tired  travelers 
were  stretched  out  before  its  genial  warmth 
busily  engaged  in  satisfying  the  appetites  that 

57 


COMRADES    THREE 

the  day's  exercise  in  the  open  air  had  aroused. 
Soon  the  last  gleam  of  day  disappeared  and  the 
stars  came  out  clear  and  bright.  The  murmur 
of  the  river  on  one  side  was  for  a  long  time 
the  only  sound  audible.  Gradually,  however, 
stranger  murmurs  came  from  the  depth  of  the 
forest,  indefinite,  inarticulate,  a  multitude  of 
voices  merged  into  one.  As  the  evening  ad- 
vanced this  noise  became  louder,  and  was  di- 
vided into  many  distinct  sounds,  as  the  creatures 
of  the  night  awakened  and  glided  forth  through 
the  darkened  aisles  of  the  woods  in  search  of 
food. 

Pierre  and  Jean  listened  attentively,  interested 
and  not  a  little  awed  by  the  novelty  of  their  situ- 
ation. Frangois,  whenever  a  new  cry  was  heard, 
told  them  to  what  animal  it  belonged.  Occasion- 
ally a  distant  crashing  in  the  underbrush  be- 
trayed the  hurried  passage  of  some  large  ani- 
mal, while  one  far-off  scream  of  agony  told  of  the 
tragic  end  of  a  mortal  combat  in  the  darkness. 
These  strange,  uncanny  sounds  made  Jean  shiver 
apprehensively  more  than   once,  while  Pierre 

58 


LIFE    IN    THE    WOODS 

now  and  then  glanced  furtively  at  their  guns, 
and  was  glad  to  see  them  still  close  at  hand. 
Frangois,  accustomed  as  he  was  to  the  weird  mys- 
tery of  the  forest  by  night,  lay  unconcernedly 
before  the  fire.  Soon  all  three  of  the  boys  began 
to  feel  the  effects  of  the  day's  hard  work,  and 
their  eyelids  drooped  despite  their  efforts  at  con- 
versation. Finally  Frangois,  after  replenishing 
the  fire,  rolled  himself  up  in  his  blanket,  and, 
after  bidding  his  companions  follow  his  example, 
was  sound  asleep  in  a  moment. 

The  night  hours  passed  rapidly.  Jean,  who 
was  dreaming  of  an  exciting  adventure  with  a 
wild-cat,  awoke  suddenly  with  a  start.  The  fire 
had  died  down,  making  the  darkness  of  the  neigh- 
boring forest  seem  very  near  and  threatening. 
As  his  eyes  opened  and  rested  in  confusion  upon 
the  blackest  spot  in  his  surroundings,  he  beheld 
his  dream  become  a  reality,  for  as  he  gazed  in 
stupefied  surprise  he  saw  two  large  catlike  eyes 
staring  fixedly  at  him.  Two  yellow  balls  of 
flame  they  were,  glowing  steadily  with  a  mena- 
cing glitter.    Jean,  feeling  himself  fascinated  by 

59 


COMRADES    THREE 

the  horrible  stare,  glanced  uneasily  to  the  right, 
only  to  behold  another  pair  of  fiery  eyeballs  re- 
garding him  steadfastly.  To  the  left  he  turned. 
There,  too,  was  the  same  terrifying  spectacle. 
All  about  them,  save  only  in  the  direction  of  the 
river,  ranged  a  semicircle  of  glittering  eyes, 
watching,  watching  in  an  ominous  silence.  Ter- 
ror entered  into  Jean's  soul  at  this  appalling 
sight,  so  with  a  mighty  effort  to  overcome  the 
benumbing  fear  that  had  seized  him  he  uttered 
a  piercing  cry.  Francois  awoke  quickly,  and 
seeing  from  Jean's  frightened  gaze  and  point- 
ing finger  the  cause  of  his  alarm,  sprang  toward 
the  fire,  seized  one  of  the  few  remaining  glow- 
ing sticks,  and  threw  it  in  the  direction  of  the 
offending  eyes.  They  instantly  vanished  be- 
fore this  attack,  and  the  sound  of  snapping 
twigs  betrayed  the  stealthy  retreat  of  their 
owners. 

Francois  stirred  the  fire,  threw  on  more  fuel, 
and  soon  the  light  from  the  flames  illuminated 
brightly  their  surroundings.  Seeing  how  fright- 
ened Jean  had  been,  he  bade  him  go  to  sleep, 

60 


LIFE    IN    THE    WOODS 

promising  that  he  would  stay  awake  and  watch 
the  fire,  so  as  to  keep  all  possible  intruders  at  a 
distance. 

When  Jean  next  opened  his  eyes  it  was  broad 
day.  Pierre  was  just  beginning  to  stir,  while 
FranQois  knelt  before  the  fire,  busily  engaged  in 
cooking  a  couple  of  fish  that  he  had  just  caught. 
Breakfast  over,  they  shouldered  their  guns  and 
entered  the  silent  shadows  of  the  forest.  Here 
FrauQois  showed  them  the  trails  of  several  wild 
animals,  explaining  carefully  their  differences. 
Farther  on  he  pointed  out  the  trunk  of  a  tree 
that  disclosed  a  number  of  freshly  made 
scratches  on  its  bark  not  far  from  the  ground,  as 
the  probable  recent  haunt  of  a  wild  cat  or  lynx. 
Even  as  he  spoke  he  raised  his  gun  and  directed 
its  aim  toward  one  of  the  upper  limbs.  The  two 
boys  strained  their  eyes  in  their  effort  to  make 
out  what  it  was  that  had  attracted  Frangois's 
attention,  but  were  at  first  unsuccessful.  Finally 
Pierre  perceived  what  looked  like  two  tufted 
ears  protruding  from  behind  a  large  limb.  These 
grew  larger,   and  he  saw  a  pair  of  greenish- 

61 


COMRADES    THREE 

yellow  eyes  peer  forth  for  an  instant.  This  was 
what  FranQois  had  been  waiting  for.  His  gun 
flashed,  and  at  the  same  instant  a  horrid  scream, 
strangely  human  in  its  tones,  resounded  through 
the  forest,  and  a  dark  object  fell  at  their  feet. 
On  examination  it  proved  to  be  a  full-grown 
lynx.  The  bullet  hole  between  the  eyes  gave  evi- 
dence of  FrauQois's  accurate  aim.  "  This  was 
probably  one  of  the  spies  whom  you  saw  watch- 
ing us  last  night,"  he  remarked  to  Jean,  who  shiv- 
ered in  spite  of  himself,  as  he  felt  the  sharp 
claws  of  the  dead  beast. 

Thus  several  days  were  passed  in  happy  activ- 
ity. Fresh  meat  was  provided  by  a  lucky  dis- 
tant shot  by  FrauQois  at  a  deer,  or  a  splendid 
catch  from  the  river.  The  warm  fire  at  night 
wooed  them  into  healthy  slumber,  while  the  cold 
plunge  in  the  river  at  dawn  roused  them  to  the 
day's  activity.  Gradually  the  strangeness  of 
their  surroundings  disappeared  for  the  two 
brothers,  and  they  strode  along  through  the 
woods  in  their  daily  expeditions  with  something 
of  the  confidence  of  old  hunters,  even  daring  to 

62 


LIFE    IN    THE    WOODS 

stray  off  alone  at  times  to  investigate  some  sign 
that  gave  promise  of  good  game. 

It  was  while  thus  engaged  in  following  a 
strange  trail  that  Jean  became  separated  from 
his  companions.  He  had  not  proceeded  far 
when  he  came  suddenly  upon  the  unknown  ob- 
ject of  his  pursuit,  a  small  bear  cub.  The  little 
fellow,  when  he  perceived  he  was  followed, 
quickened  his  clumsy,  rolling  gait.  Jean  thought 
it  would  be  great  fun  to  capture  him  alive  and 
take  him  back  to  Quebec  with  him.  He  accord- 
ingly made  no  attempt  to  shoot,  but  endeavored 
merely  to  catch  up  with  the  little  beast,  a  thing 
he  found  to  be  difficult  to  do.  Some  time  thus 
elapsed  in  the  pursuit.  Finally  when  Jean  had 
almost  come  up  with  the  cub  he  suddenly  disap- 
peared. The  boy  paused  and  examined  care- 
fully the  spot  where  he  had  last  seen  him,  but 
without  avail.  On  looking  about  him  he  discov- 
ered that  he  had  been  following  a  narrow  gully 
whose  sides  were  almost  perpendicular.  The 
only  explanation  he  could  find  for  the  cub's  es- 
cape was  that  he  had  crept  into  some  hidden  hole 

63 


COMRADES    THREE 

or  cave,  probably  his  home.  After  searching 
for  the  entrance  to  this  supposed  place  of  con- 
cealment without  success,  Jean  turned  to  retrace 
his  steps.  Then  it  was  that  he  first  realized  how 
long  he  had  been  separated  from  his  companions. 
Obeying  his  first  impulse  he  gave  a  loud  halloo, 
hoping  that  the  others  might  possibly  hear  him. 
The  echo  resounding  from  the  sides  of  the  gully 
was  the  only  answer.  Again  he  shouted,  and 
was  surprised  to  hear  a  deep  growl  in  reply,  and 
to  behold  a  huge,  full-grown  bear  emerge  from 
among  the  trees  and  come  rapidly  toward  him. 
Inasmuch  as  the  animal  came  from  the  direction 
in  which  he  wished  to  go,  Jean  turned  and  re- 
treated up  the  gully. 

At  first  he  hoped  the  bear  would  give  up  the 
chase,  as  he  remembered  hearing  that  they  were 
usually  afraid  of  human  beings  unless  cornered 
and  compelled  to  fight,  or  through  fear  of  an 
attack  upon  their  young.  Then  it  flashed  over 
him  that  the  bear's  lair  being  probably  close  at 
hand,  his  presence  might  enrage  the  powerful 
beast,  alarmed  lest  he  harm  its  cub.    He  accord- 

64 


LIFE    IN    THE    WOODS 

ingly  retreated  rapidly  and  without  formality, 
but  the  bear  followed  steadily  after  him.  He 
was  excited  at  the  adventure,  yet  laughed  aloud 
at  the  thought  of  the  figure  he  must  cut  as  he 
fled  before  his  pursuer.  His  mirth  was  quickly 
silenced,  however,  when  he  suddenly  came  to  the 
end  of  the  gully — a  high,  smooth  wall  of  rock,  im- 
possible to  climb,  while  the  sides  were  equally 
inaccessible.  He  was  thus  caught  in  a  sort  of 
blind  alley,  with  the  bear  between  him  and  free- 
dom. Determined  to  put  up  as  good  a  fight  as 
he  was  able,  he  braced  his  back  against  the  rock, 
examined  his  gun  carefully,  and  awaited  the  at- 
tack. The  huge  animal  came  steadily  on  until 
it  was  about  ten  feet  in  front  of  him,  when  it 
stopped,  and,  rising  on  its  haunches,  opened  wide 
its  jaws  and  emitted  an  angry  growl.  Jean 
raised  his  gun  and  fired.  A  roar  from  the  in- 
furiated beast  showed  that  it  had  not  been  hit  in 
any  vital  part.  Smarting  with  pain  it  rushed 
upon  the  unfortunate  youth  with  arms  outspread 
to  gather  him  in  a  deadly  embrace. 
Time  was  lacking  for  Jean  to  reload.  Drop- 
65 


COMRADES    THREE 

ping  his  now  useless  gun,  he  drew  the  only  other 
weapon  he  had  with  him — his  long  hunting  knife 
— and  prepared  for  an  almost  hopeless  hand-to- 
hand  encounter.  Unless  he  was  able  to  drive  the 
blade  home  at  the  first  stroke  he  would  be  at  the 
animal's  mercy.  On  it  came.  The  small  eyes 
gleamed  with  fury  while  the  open  jaws  moved 
convulsively  in  pain  caused  by  Jean's  bullet. 
The  paws,  armed  with  long  claws,  were  almost 
touching  him;  the  hot,  sickening  breath  of  the 
beast  reached  his  nostrils.  Then  it  was  that  he 
felt  that  the  time  for  action  had  arrived,  so  with 
an  unflinching  heart  he  met  the  danger.  Seizing 
his  knife  with  both  hands  he  sprang  to  meet  the 
bear's  embrace,  putting  all  his  strength  into  a 
stroke  aimed  at  the  animal's  heart.  For  an  in- 
stant his  face  was  buried  in  the  beast's  heavy 
fur ;  for  one  long  moment  he  felt  the  squeeze  of 
the  powerful  paws  as  they  encircled  him.  Then 
the  pressure  was  removed,  the  hold  relaxed,  and 
the  huge  body,  toppling  over  backward,  fell  to  the 
ground  with  a  crash.  Jean  had  won  the  conflict. 
The  keen  knife  had  done  its  work. 

66 


CHAPTER  VI 

IN  WHICH  A  GAME  OF  HIDE  AND  SEEK  IS  PLAYED,  A 
STBANGE  DISCOVEKY  MADE,  AND  A  COMPACT 
FORMED 

When  Jean  saw  the  monster,  which,  a  moment 
before,  had  been  alive  and  threatening  with  all 
the  ferocity  of  its  savage  nature,  lying  dead  at 
his  feet  his  heart  gave  a  leap  for  joy.  A  distant 
halloo  from  his  companions  recalled  him  to  his 
surroundings.  He  gave  an  answering  cry  that 
soon  brought  them  to  him. 

"  Bravo,  mon  cher  ami !  "  exclaimed  Francois, 
in  genuine  amazement  at  his  success.  Pierre 
could  hardly  comprehend  for  a  moment  that  his 
brother  had  actually  slain  the  huge  beast  with 
one  well-directed  blow.  When  he  did,  he  sprang 
at  Jean  and  hugged  him  with  as  much  delight  as 
though  he  himself  had  been  the  successful  hunter. 
FrauQois  at  once  proceeded  deftly  to  remove  the 

67 


COMRADES    THREE 

animal's  skin,  an  undertaking  which  the  other 
two  watched  with  much  interest.  When  this 
task  was  completed  they  set  out  for  camp,  which 
they  reached  without  further  adventure.  The 
next  morning  they  started  for  Quebec,  and  after 
a  day's  vigorous  paddling  they  shot  out  into  the 
St.  Lawrence  once  more.  An  hour  or  two 
later  they  arrived  at  home.  Captain  Bordeleau 
had  just  come  in  and  listened  indulgently  to  the 
boys'  recital  of  their  hunting  trip.  He  examined 
the  bearskin,  pronounced  it  an  excellent  speci- 
men, and  complimented  Jean  on  his  success,  pre- 
dicting that  erelong  he  would  become  a  mighty 
hunter. 

In  two  or  three  days'  time  the  boys  had  entirely 
recovered  from  the  fatigue  of  their  journey  and 
were  eager  for  more  sport.  Francois,  who  had 
gone  home  meanwhile,  soon  returned.  He  sug- 
gested that  they  should  put  to  practical  use  some 
of  the  knowledge  gained  in  their  two  weeks  in  the 
woods.  He  led  them  to  the  river's  edge  a  mile 
below  Quebec.  Here  he  proposed  that  Jean 
should  be  given  a  five  minutes'  start  and  en- 

68 


A    GAME    OF    HIDE    AND    SEEK 

deavor  to  hide  himself  in  the  underbrush  lining 
the  side  of  the  river  and  the  low  bluff  adjoining, 
while  he  and  Pierre  should  follow  him  by  what- 
ever trail  he  might  leave  behind.  This  was  read- 
ily assented  to,  and  Jean  started  off,  leaving  the 
other  two  behind  with  stopped  ears  and  closed 
eyes. 

When  they  had  waited  the  length  of  time 
agreed  upon  they  opened  their  eyes  and  looked 
about  for  some  trace  that  would  indicate  the 
direction  taken.  Soon  Pierre  discovered  the  im- 
pression of  Jean's  foot  in  the  sand  that  showed 
he  had  started  up  the  river.  Francois  allowed 
Pierre  to  make  all  the  discoveries  he  could,  offer- 
ing no  aid  until  he  lost  the  trail.  The  latter 
demonstrated  that  he  had  been  a  ready  learner 
of  all  FrauQois  had  previously  taught  him,  and 
that  his  natural  powers  of  observation  were 
keen.  Soon  he  spied  a  broken  branch  that  di- 
rected them  a  little  to  the  right  nearer  the  bluffs. 
He  became  baffled,  however,  in  a  few  moments 
not  discovering  any  further  indications  of  Jean's 
progress,  and  was  compelled  to  return  to  the 

69 


COMRADES    THREE 

point  where  he  first  beheld  the  broken  branch, 
and  devote  his  attention  to  that  vicinity.  Soon 
another  trace  was  found  that  led  them  toward 
the  river  again.  Once  more  did  the  trail  lead  to 
the  underbrush  beneath  the  bluff,  which  was  cov- 
ered with  short  stunted  bushes  and  vines.  Here 
Pierre  became  confused,  and  was  compelled  to 
call  upon  FrauQois  for  assistance.  His  compan- 
ion then  directed  his  attention  to  two  possible 
routes  Jean  might  have  taken.  One  was  blocked 
by  a  tiny  spider's  web.  Hence  the  other  must  be 
the  correct  one.  They  followed  this,  and  met 
several  confirmatory  evidences.  Finally  a  point 
was  reached  when  even  Francois  was  puzzled. 
The  trail  was  as  completely  lost  as  though  the 
earth  had  swallowed  Jean  up.  Around  and 
around  they  went  in  ever-widening  circles  in 
their  endeavors  to  find  some  clew,  but  all  in  vain. 
The  search  was  continued  through  the  bushes 
and  vines  up  to  the  very  base  of  the  bluff,  but 
without  success.  Breathless  they  stood,  continu- 
ing their  search  with  their  eyes.  At  last  Fran- 
cois exclaimed :  "  I  give  it  up.    He  must  have 

70 


A    GAME    OF    HIDE    AND    SEEK 

turned  on  his  track,  and  we  have  probably  passed 
him  some  distance  back." 

Just  then  Jean's  voice  was  heard,  almost  in 
their  ears,  it  seemed  so  near.  "  If  you  acknowl- 
edge yourselves  beaten  come  here  and  see  what  I 
have  discovered." 

The  two  boys  turned  quickly  about,  and  look- 
ing upward  a  trifle  they  saw  Jean's  face  peer- 
ing at  them  from  between  the  leaves  of  the  vine 
covering  the  bluff,  and  at  a  distance  of  only  a 
yard  from  where  they  were  standing. 

"  Come  this  way,  and  be  careful  not  to  injure 
the  vine,"  warned  Jean,  as  he  separated  some  of 
its  branches  for  the  others  to  pass  through. 
They  did  so,  and  much  to  their  astonishment 
found  themselves  standing  in  the  entrance  of  a 
cave  in  which  Jean  had  been  hiding  all  the  time, 
watching  their  discomfiture  from  behind  the 
leafy  screen. 

"  It  was  by  the  merest  accident  that  I  found 

the  way  in,"  he  explained.     "  I  had  stopped  a 

moment  to  breathe  and  decide  what  direction  I 

should  take.    Looking  at  this  bluff  it  occurred  to 

6  71 


COMRADES    THREE 

me  to  try  and  draw  myself  to  the  top,  which  you 
see  is  only  about  fifteen  feet  high  in  this  place, 
by  means  of  the  vines,  and  thus  escape.  I  started 
to  test  them,  when  they  broke  and  I  fell  inward, 
not  against  the  face  of  the  rock,  as  I  supposed, 
but  into  this  strange  hole.  I  only  had  time  to  re- 
arrange the  entrance  properly  when  you  came  in 
sight.  I  have  had  no  opportunity  to  explore  the 
interior." 

He  thereupon  held  the  vines  widely  apart  so  as 
to  admit  as  much  light  as  possible,  while  the  other 
two  proceeded  to  investigate  carefully  the  extent 
of  the  cave.  They  found  that  it  ran  back  a  dis- 
tance of  some  twenty  feet,  with  an  average  width 
of  about  ten,  while  its  height  in  its  lowest  por- 
tion, the  entrance,  was  fully  six  feet.  The  height 
gradually  increased  toward  the  middle,  until 
finally  a  small  opening  was  discovered  in  the 
roof  that  showed  the  daylight  faintly  through. 
Evidently  some  hidden  stream  in  the  olden  time 
had  burrowed  its  way  through  the  limestone 
rock,  eventually  increasing  the  interior  to  its 
present  dimensions. 

72 


A    GAME    OF    HIDE    AND    SEEK 

The  three  boys  sat  down  near  the  entrance 
and  gazed  at  one  another  in  mute  surprise 
and  •  delight.  At  last  Francois  broke  the 
silence : 

"  What  a  fine  place  it  would  be  in  which  to 
camp.  We  could  have  a  fire  at  night,  the  smoke 
would  go  up  through  the  hole  in  the  roof,  while 
these  vines  would  prevent  the  light  from  being 
seen  from  the  river." 

"  Say  rather  a  refuge  from  the  Indians  in  case 
of  need.  With  a  store  of  provisions  here  we 
could  stay  as  long  as  we  wished,  without  running 
any  risk  of  discovery.  One  of  us  could  steal 
down  at  night  to  the  river  for  a  supply  of  water," 
suggested  Pierre. 

"  What  a  pity  we  are  not  robbers  or  pirates," 
exclaimed  Jean  excitedly.  "  We  could  store  all 
of  our  gold  and  other  plunder  here,  and  hold 
midnight  meetings  to  discuss  our  plans." 

"  Nonsense !  "  was  Pierre's  reproving  reply. 
"  There  are  no  pirates  about  here.  Besides,  we 
are  not  thieves,  but  honest  men.  But  it  would  in- 
deed be  the  place  for  secret  meetings." 

73 


COMRADES    THREE 

Jean  was  thoughtful,  not  noticing  the  tone 
of  his  brother's  speech.  At  length  his  eyes 
flashed  with  excitement.  "  I  have  it,  the  very 
thing,"  and  he  lay  back  upon  the  floor  of  the  cave, 
chuckling  with  delight. 

"  If  you  have  anything  worth  saying,  say  it, 
instead  of  rolling  around  in  the  dirt,"  was 
Pierre's  impatient  answer. 

"  Listen  then,"  replied  Jean,  sitting  up  again 
and  talking  eagerly.  "  You  know  when  men  have 
a  great  regard  for  each  other  or  a  deep  purpose 
in  life  to  carry  out  they  always  form  themselves 
into  a  secret  brotherhood.  For  example,  I  have 
read  that  when  the  nobles  conspire  to  dethrone 
a  king  they  always  form  a  secret  alliance,  bind- 
ing themselves  together  with  a  terrible  oath  for 
the  purpose  of  carrying  out  their  object.  They 
also  have  mysterious  signs  and  words  of  com- 
munication, and  strange  lonely  places  of  assem- 
bling in  the  late  hours  of  the  night.  Or  take  the 
priests,  do  they  not  form  brotherhoods,  take  sol- 
emn vows,  meet  secretly  to  conduct  their  affairs 
— all  that  their  noble  aims  may  be  the  better 

74 


A    GAME    OF    HIDE    AND    SEEK 

carried  out  1  Why  cannot  we  form  a  brotherhood 
of  three?" 

"  But  there  is  no  king  to  be  deposed — we  love 
our  King  too  well  for  that.  Besides,  I  for  one 
do  not  want  to  become  a  monk,"  objected  Pierre 
dubiously. 

"  True,"  replied  Jean  persistently,  "  but  are 
we  not  very  fond  of  Frangois,  here?  Suppose 
some  enemy  of  his  should  arise  and  try  to  do  him 
harm,  would  we  not  want  to  help  him  in  every 
way  we  could  ?  And  would  he  not  in  turn  aid  us  I 
If  we  three  should  form  an  alliance  for  mutual 
protection  we  could  thus  defend  each  other." 

"And  we  could  have  this  cave  as  our  secret 
meeting  place,"  added  Pierre,  beginning  to  be  in- 
terested. 

"  Ever  since  our  friend  the  trader  told  us  of 
his  military  expedition  against  the  English  I 
have  been  thinking  how  we  boys  could  fight  for 
the  Colony  and  the  King.  It  would  be  too  long  to 
wait  until  we  were  old  enough  to  enter  the  army. 
Besides,  from  something  my  uncle  said  recently, 
there  are  rumors  that  the  English  are  liable  to 

75 


COMRADES    THREE 

attack  Quebec.  If  they  did,  might  we  not  be  able 
to  render  good  service  as  scouts?  If  they  came 
by  water,  as  they  probably  would,  we  could  spy 
out  their  movements  from  this  place,  and  per- 
haps gain  important  information  to  carry  to  the 
Governor." 

"  Good ! "  cried  Francois,  speaking  for  the 
first  time.  "  We  could  undoubtedly  accomplish 
something  that  the  soldiers  themselves  shut  up 
in  the  city  could  never  do.  For  my  part  I  am 
willing." 

"  What  would  we  have  as  our  secret? " 
queried  Pierre.  "  For  a  brotherhood  without  a 
secret  would  be  no  brotherhood  at  all." 

"  Let  the  existence  of  this  cave,  the  location  of 
which  is  known  only  to  us  three,  be  our  secret," 
suggested  FrauQois. 

"But  would  it  be  right  to  have  any  secrets 
from  our  uncle  ?  "  asked  Jean  doubtfully. 

"  Pshaw !  "  replied  Pierre.  "  How  can  our 
discovery  of  this  cave  hurt  him?  He  would  not 
care.  It  would  spoil  our  fun  not  to  have  some 
sort, of  secret." 

76 


A    GAME    OF    HIDE    AND    SEEK 

"  Very  well,"  said  Jean,  convinced.  "  But 
what  shall  we  do  for  signs  and  passwords?  " 

"We  do  not  need  any  signs  or  passwords," 
answered  Francois.  "  But  we  can  have  a  system 
of  signals.  If  I  wanted  to  communicate  with  you 
I  would  stand  under  your  window  and  hoot  like 
an  owl.  For  example,  if  I  wanted  to  tell  you 
to  come  out  I  would  give  three  long  hoots  for  the 
letter  '  C,'  because  that  is  the  third  letter  of  the 
alphabet.  *  0,'  is  the  fifteenth,  and  would  be 
represented  by  one  long  hoot  and  five  short  ones. 
*  M,'  by  one  long  and  three  short,  *  E,'  by  five  long 
cries." 

"  Splendid ! "  cried  Pierre,  thoroughly  aroused, 
"  And  if  you  were  in  the  next  room  you  could  tap 
on  the  wall." 

"  Certainement! "  responded  Francois;  "  a  lit- 
tle practice  will  make  us  quite  expert." 

"  How  could  we  arrange  for  our  night  meet- 
ings? We  could  not  leave  and  enter  the  house 
without  some  one  discovering  us;  Bolo,  for  ex- 
ample, who  would  surely  tell  my  uncle." 

"  I  will  make  you  a  rope  ladder  which  you  can 
77 


COMRADES    THREE 

easily  hide  in  your  room.  When  you  want  to  go 
out  all  you  will  have  to  do  will  be  to  attach  it  to 
a  piece  of  heavy  furniture  like  your  bed,  and 
drop  the  other  end  to  the  ground  from  your  win- 
dow. Then  when  you  return,  it  can  be  pulled  in 
after  you." 

This  idea  was  received  with  applause  by  the 
other  two. 

"What  kind  of  an  oath  shall  we  takel "  was 
Pierre's  next  question. 

"  I  will  tell  you,"  cried  Jean  after  a  moment's 
thought.  "  All  three  stand  up  and  clasp  hands." 
This  was  done.  "  Now  do  you  repeat  after  me : 
I  solemnly  promise " 

"  I  solemnly  promise,"  replied  his  companions. 

"  To  be  loyal  and  true  to  all  the  members  of 
this  our  brotherhood." 

"  — this  our  brotherhood,"  echoed  the  two  older 
boys. 

"  And  I  hereby  agree  to  aid,  defend,  and  love 
them,  at  all  times  and  under  all  circumstances, 
to  the  best  of  my  ability,  until  released  from  my 
promise  by  their  unanimous  consent.    Their  loss 

78 


A    GAME    OF    HIDE    AND    SEEK 

shall  be  my  loss,  their  secrets  my  secrets,  their 
peril  my  peril.  All  this  I  promise  on  my  honor 
as  a  gentleman." 

Thus  was  the  solemn  obligation  assumed  by 
the  three  boys  with  a  gravity  beyond  their  years. 
Within  the  cave  all  was  silent.  Without,  the 
river  flowed  by  noiselessly,  the  clinging  vine  at 
the  entrance  swayed  in  the  soft  breeze  with  an 
almost  imperceptible  rustle,  while  the  afternoon 
sun,  pouring  its  warm  rays  between  the  leaves, 
fell  upon  their  earnest  faces,  already  lighted  up 
by  the  glow  of  youth  and  fine  feelings.  Thus  did 
the  day  ebb  slowly  to  its  close,  but  all  unknown 
and  unseen  there  dawned  a  new  epoch  in  the  lives 
of  these  youths,  fraught  with  heavy  responsi- 
bility and  grave  peril. 


79 


CHAPTER   VII 

CONTAINS    SOME    MYSTERIOUS    EVENTS    THAT    BODE 
ILL   FOE   THE   MEMBERS   OF   THE   BROTHERHOOD 

The  following  week  was  spent  in  fitting  up  the 
cave  so  as  to  render  it  habitable.  Francois  de- 
clared he  would  enjoy  spending  many  of  his 
nights  there  in  preference  to  going  home.  The 
floor  was  carefully  swept  clear  of  the  dried  leaves 
that  had  collected,  while  in  the  center  a  pile  of 
flat  stones  was  erected  on  which  a  fire  could  be 
built.  From  Jacques  Ormesson  the  boys  re- 
ceived a  goodly  supply  of  powder  and  bullets 
without  telling  him  the  purpose  for  which  they 
wished  to  use  them.  Francois  brought  a  number 
of  skins,  dilapidated  and  worn  to  be  sure,  but 
still  serviceable,  which  were  used  as  rugs  on 
which  to  sit  or  lie.  A  quantity  of  rope  was  ob- 
tained out  of  which  he  constructed  a  ladder.  The 
remainder  was  coiled  up  in  a  comer  and  pre- 
served against  the  time  when  it  might  prove  very 

80 


SOME    MYSTERIOUS    EVENTS 

useful.  The  bluff  was  scaled  in  order  to  deter- 
mine what  sort  of  outlet  it  was  through  which  the 
smoke  of  their  fire  would  pass  when  it  was  built. 
It  was  discovered  that  a  large  cone-shaped  rock 
about  ten  feet  high  rested  immediately  over  the 
cave.  This  rock  had  been  split  by  some  strange 
agency  of  nature,  and  it  was  through  the  wide 
crevice  in  its  side  some  five  feet  from  the  base 
thus  made  that  the  daylight  was  visible  from  be- 
low. FrauQois  expressed  considerable  surprise 
at  this  discovery. 

"  Strange  indeed !  "  he  said  to  his  companions. 
"  This  rock  is  known  far  and  wide  as  '  Chimney 
Rock '  from  its  shape,  and  is  used  as  a  landmark 
for  ships  coming  up  the  channel  of  the  river. 
Little  will  the  navigators  think  that  we  are  using 
it  as  a  real  chimney  for  our  fire." 

In  the  mean  time,  the  hunting  and  tramps 
through  the  woods  were  not  neglected.  These 
latter  gave  the  two  boys  an  excellent  opportunity 
to  observe  and  mimic  the  cries  of  various  birds, 
and  in  a  short  time  they  became  quite  proficient. 
When  separated  they  would  practice  exchanging 

81 


COMRADES    THREE 

signals,  until  they  could  both  send  and  receive 
short  messages  with  ease.  They  met  regularly 
two  nights  a  week  in  the  cave  at  midnight ;  Pierre 
and  Jean  slipping  out  and  returning  by  means 
of  their  rope  ladder  without  fear  of  detection. 
At  these  meetings  a  huge  fire  of  driftwood  was 
built  on  the  pile  of  flat  stones  which  lighted  up 
every  corner  and  diffused  a  comfortable  warmth 
throughout  the  cavern,  dispelling  the  chill  which 
in  this  northern  latitude  was  felt  even  in  summer 
as  soon  as  the  sun  went  down.  On  these  occa- 
sions the  three  boys,  stretched  at  full  length  upon 
the  skins  about  the  fire,  discussed  their  own 
future  plans  and  hopes  with  enthusiasm,  together 
with  those  of  the  Colony,  for  the  English  invasion 
was  an  assured  fact.  Reliable  information  had 
been  brought  to  Quebec  that  the  English  had 
already  set  sail  from  Boston,  and  might  erelong 
ascend  the  St.  Lawrence  in  their  bold  attempt  to 
subdue  the  mighty  stronghold  that  stood  as  the 
bulwark  of  all  New  France. 

Governor  Frontenac,  fearing  some  such  action 
on  the  part  of  the  enemy  as  a  result  of  the  three 

82 


SOME    MYSTERIOUS    EVENTS 

war  parties  he  had  dispatched  against  them  the 
previous  winter,  had  given  much  attention  to  the 
strengthening  of  the  weak  points  in  the  fortifica- 
tions of  the  city.  The  last  of  July  he  had  gone 
up  the  river  to  Montreal  to  take  part  in  the  an- 
nual meeting  there  of  the  friendly  Indians  from 
the  Great  Lakes,  the  Hurons  and  Ottawas,  as- 
sembled with  their  cargoes  of  furs  to  trade  with 
the  French.  In  his  absence  a  multitude  of  rumors 
filled  the  air,  many  of  which  the  boys  heard 
and  which  served  to  increase  their  excitement. 
Among  these  rumors  was  one  to  the  effect  that 
the  hated  savage  allies  of  the  English,  the  Iro- 
quois, were  about  to  make  a  land  attack  from  the 
west,  to  coincide  with  the  expected  bombardment 
from  the  English  fleet. 

One  night  Jean,  whose  mind  had  probably 
been  dwelling  upon  this  new  danger,  experienced 
a  terrible  dream.  He  had  been  pursued  by  a 
band  of  painted  savages  who  gained  steadily  on 
him  until  he  was  surrounded  and  about  to  be  cap- 
tured when  he  awoke  with  a  start,  all  atremble 
with  excitement.     Sitting  up  in  bed  he  looked 

83 


COMRADES    THREE 

about  him  wildly  for  a  moment,  until  he  recog- 
nized by  the  light  of  the  moon  his  familiar  sur- 
roundings. Settling  down  he  attempted  to  go  to 
sleep  again,  but  his  nervous  condition  prevented 
his  doing  so.  His  thoughts  were  busy  along  the 
line  suggested  by  his  dream — namely,  Indians. 
Suddenly  his  attention  was  arrested  by  the  soft 
tread  as  of  moccasined  feet  in  the  hall  outside  his 
door.  The  hour  was  late,  the  house  was  perfectly 
still,  so  that  the  slightest  noise  was  distinctly  au- 
dible. The  sound  continued.  Leaping  from  bed 
he  quietly  opened  the  door  and  glided  into  the 
hall.  He  proceeded  but  a  few  feet  when  he  be- 
held the  figure  of  an  Indian  wrapped  in  a  blanket, 
standing  full  in  the  moonlight  before  the  door  of 
his  uncle's  room.  Motionless  it  stood,  but  every 
feature  of  the  savage  face  was  plainly  visible  in 
the  bright  glare. 

The  boy  uttered  a  piercing  cry  that  reechoed 
through  the  lonely  hall.  Instantly  the  Indian 
vanished.  A  moment  later  the  door  of  Captain 
Bordeleau's  room  opened,  and  he  appeared  in  the 
doorway  fully  dressed  and  with  a  lighted  candle 

84 


SOME    MYSTERIOUS    EVENTS 

in  his  hand.     As  soon  as  he  perceived  Jean's 
trembling  form,  he  frowned. 

"  Ventrebleu! "  he  said  in  an  irritated  tone, 
"  what  mean  you  by  such  a  noise  f  One  would 
think  you  were  being  murdered." 

"  The  Indian !  The  Indian !  "  cried  Jean, 
pointing  toward  the  shadows  of  the  farther  end 
of  the  hall  in  the  direction  in  which  the  figure  had 
vanished. 

"Indian?  What  Indian?"  queried  Captain 
Bordeleau  anxiously. 

Jean  then  related  his  experience.  His  uncle 
looked  much  provoked.  "Peste! "  he  exclaimed 
roughly,  "  there  are  no  Indians  about  this  house. 
Be  about  your  business.  Go  back  to  bed  and 
sleep.  It  is  late."  Then,  as  though  desirous  of 
convincing  the  lad,  he  beckoned  to  him.  To- 
gether they  advanced  toward  the  darkened  end 
of  the  hall.  "  See,"  he  continued  as  he  held  the 
candle  aloft,  "  there  is  no  one  here.  You  must 
have  been  dreaming  of  the  redskins,  were  you 
not?  " 

"  Yes,  monsieur." 

85 


COMRADES    THREE 

"  Ah,  that  explains  it !  "  he  said  with  an  air  of 
relief.  "  You  were  under  the  influence  of  your 
dream,  when,  through  some  impulse,  you  got  up 
and  entered  the  hall,  and  thought  you  saw  a  live 
savage.  Back  now  to  your  room  or  you  will  get 
cold.  You  have  interrupted  me  in  my  work, 
which  keeps  me  up  late  to-night." 

Jean  returned,  but  not  to  sleep.  He  crept  in 
beside  Pierre,  who  was  slumbering  through  it  all, 
and  lay  down  to  troubled  thoughts.  That  he  had 
been  wide  awake  when  he  heard  the  soft  footfalls 
he  was  certain.  No  one  could  convince  him  that 
he  had  not  seen  a  veritable  Indian  in  the  moon- 
light. What  was  the  intruder  doing  in  the  house  ? 
Why  was  his  uncle  up  and  dressed  so  late  at 
night?  Why  had  he  seemed  angry  when  he  told 
him  what  he  had  seen?  Why  had  he  tried  to 
explain  it  away  as  a  mere  illusion? 

These  and  similar  thoughts  filled  his  mind  un- 
til finally,  just  at  daybreak,  he  sank  into  a  light 
slumber.  When  he  awakened  he  told  the  whole 
story  to  Pierre,  who  was  unable  to  fathom  the 
mystery,  for  mystery  it  undoubtedly  was. 

86 


SOME    MYSTERIOUS    EVENTS 

At  breakfast  Captain  Bordeleau  greeted  them 
affably.  "  And  how  is  my  dreamer  of  dreams 
and  seer  of  visions  this  morning?  "  he  remarked 
playfully  to  Jean  as  he  took  his  seat.  "  I  fear 
your  supper  was  too  rich  for  you  to  sleep  rest- 
fully.  I  must  speak  to  Bolo  about  it  so  that  he 
may  give  us  simpler  fare." 

Later  in  the  day  the  two  boys  called  at  the 
trader's  shop,  and  when  they  were  able  to  get  him 
alone  told  him  of  the  strange  adventure  of  the 
night  before,  omitting  no  detail.  Ormesson  lis- 
tened gravely  until  they  had  finished,  then  leaned 
back  in  meditative  silence  for  some  moments.  At 
length  he  looked  at  his  two  companions  with  a 
sympathetic  eye. 

"  You  did  well,"  he  began,  "  to  come  to  me  at 
once  in  your  perplexity.  Troublous  times  are 
upon  us,  and  it  is  fitting  that  you  should  know 
what  I  have  wished  to  tell  you  long  ago.  Ugly 
rumors  have  been  plentiful  concerning  your 
uncle  for  some  years.  He  has  managed  in  some 
way  to  quiet  them  until  lately,  when  they  have 
been  more  numerous  than  ever.  Were  it  not  that 
7  87 


COMRADES    THREE 

more  weighty  matters  have  engaged  the  mind  of 
the  Governor  recently,  I  doubt  not  but  that  some 
of  your  uncle's  affairs  would  have  been  closely 
examined,  resulting,  I  firmly  believe,  in  conse- 
quences disastrous  to  him.  What  my  own  inter- 
pretation of  last  night's  proceeding  is,  I  shall  not 
now  tell  you.  You  are,  however,  in  no  personal 
danger  from  him.  Only  be  careful  lest  he  call 
upon  you  to  perform  some  act,  apparently  harm- 
less, that  might  prove  to  be  serious  in  its  conse- 
quences to  you.  Avoid  his  society  as  much  as 
possible,  and  if  anything  further  occurs  remem- 
ber I  am  your  friend,  as  much  so  as  though  you 
were  my  own  flesh  and  blood ;  come  and  advise 
freely  with  me." 

Pierre  and  Jean  left  the  trader  thankful  for 
his  warm  interest  in  them,  but  with  an  added  feel- 
ing of  alarm  because  of  the  dangers  vaguely 
hinted  at.  They  resolved,  however,  to  follow  his 
advice  carefully.  In  addition  they  determined 
not  to  report  their  friend's  fears  to  Francois,  but 
only  to  relate  their  recent  adventure  and  allow 
him  to  draw  his  own  conclusions. 

88 


SOME    MYSTERIOUS    EVENTS 

Affairs  with  their  uncle  grew  worse  instead  of 
better.  His  attitude  changed  from  apparent 
frankness  to  one  of  doubt  and  suspicion.  If  he 
chanced  to  peruse  a  letter  or  document  of  any 
sort  at  the  table,  he  was  continually  glancing  up 
sharply  to  see  that  they  were  not  endeavoring  to 
read  its  contents.  In  the  daytime  he  seemed  un- 
easy while  they  were  in  the  house.  At  night  he 
was  restless  until  they  had  retired.  On  several 
occasions  Jean  awakened  and  heard  the  same 
silent  tread  in  the  hall,  or  the  low,  muffled  hum 
of  human  voices  engaged  in  secret  conversa- 
tion. Twice  did  a  mysterious  stranger  arrive, 
his  face  closely  muffled,  and  remain  closeted 
with  Captain  Bordeleau  until  the  night  was  far 
spent. 

Living  in  this  atmosphere  of  suspicion  and 
dread  of  an  unseen  danger  soon  told  upon  the 
two  boys.  At  night  they  tossed  restlessly  in 
their  sleep  or  awakened  panic-stricken  by  some 
strange  dream.  Even  their  interest  in  the  af- 
fairs of  the  brotherhood  waned  under  this  load 
of  constant  anxiety.     Matters  went  on  in  this 

89 


COMRADES    THREE 

fashion  day  after  day  until  they  were  terminated 
in  a  singular  manner. 

One  night  they  were  suddenly  awakened  by  a 
knock  on  their  door.  Before  either  could  speak 
it  was  opened  and  Captain  Bordeleau  entered 
bearing  a  candle.  By  its  light  they  saw  that  he 
was  laboring  under  some  unusual  excitement. 

"  Get  up,"  he  said  hurriedly,  "  and  put  on  your 
clothes." 

While  they  obeyed  he  went  on :  "I  wish  you  to 
do  me  an  important  service.  I  am  unexpectedly 
summoned  to  see  the  Intendant.  There  is  no  one 
in  the  house;  the  servants  are  asleep."  Then 
pointing  out  of  the  window :  "  I  am  expecting  a 
signal  from  some  friends  at  any  moment.  I  want 
you  to  stand  here  and  watch  carefully.  When 
you  see  a  light  flash,  then  disappear  and  flash 
again,  you  are  to  hold  this  candle  in  the  window, 
then  lower  it  to  the  floor,  and  hold  it  up  a  second 
time.  Be  careful  to  count  the  answering  signal. 
It  will  consist  of  one  flash  or  three.  Remember 
which  it  is  and  report  to  me  in  the  morning." 

He  placed  the  candle  on  the  table  and  started 
90 


SOME    MYSTERIOUS    EVENTS 

to  withdraw.  Pierre  suddenly  recollected  the 
warning  of  the  trader  not  to  become  involved  in 
any  of  his  uncle's  irregularities. 

"  Pardon  me,  monsieur,"  he  said  in  a  respect- 
ful tone,  "  but  what  does  all  this  signaling  mean  I 
We  can  do  nothing  blindly.  It  would  be  wrong 
for  us  to  do  anything  of  that  sort  unless  we  knew 
the  reason  for  it." 

Captain  Bordeleau  turned  upon  him  in  a  fury. 
"  Ten  thousand  devils !  "  he  cried.  "  Do  you  re- 
fuse me  the  first  request  for  aid  I  have  made! 
You,  beggar  that  you  are,  living  on  my  charity  1 
Wrong!  You  must  know,  forsooth,  what  it  all 
means !  "  and  he  stopped  speaking  through  sheer 
inability  to  express  his  feelings. 

"  That  we  are  beholden  to  you  for  much,  mon- 
sieur, we  freely  admit,"  replied  Pierre  firmly. 
"  We  owe  you  any  service  that  we  can  honorably 
render.  But  we  owe  a  higher  service  to  our  King 
and  country.  Our  enemies  are  soon  to  attack 
Quebec,  it  is  said,  and  we  are  willing  to  aid  in  any 
way  possible  against  them,  boys  though  we  are. 
If  the  service  you  require  of  us  be  entirely  a 

91 


COMRADES    THREE 

worthy  one,  why  make  a  mystery  of  it !  The  sig- 
nals might  convey  important  information  to  our 
friends.  They  might  also  disclose  something  of 
value  to  the  enemy.    The  English " 

At  the  word  Pierre  saw  his  uncle's  face  pale 
suddenly,  despite  its  angry  flush.  Then  it  flamed 
redder  than  before,  while  a  black  malignant  look 
spread  over  his  features.  Before  he  could  reply 
his  eye  caught  sight  of  the  flashing  of  a  dis- 
tant light.  The  tiny  spark  disappeared,  then 
glowed  another  instant  in  the  darkness  and 
went  out. 

Captain  Bordeleau  quickly  caught  up  the 
candle  to  make  the  answering  signal.  Pierre, 
who  was  standing  near  and  had  seen  all  that  hap- 
pened, by  a  quick  movement  of  his  hand  struck 
the  light  to  the  floor,  thus  extinguishing  it.  His 
uncle  stumbled  toward  the  door  uttering  a  volley 
of  curses,  and  rushed  to  his  own  room  for  another 
candle.  The  boys  heard  him  run  up  a  flight  of 
stairs  to  the  room  directly  above  their  own. 
Then,  after  he  had  spent  a  moment  in  signaling 
from  the  upper  window,  the  answering  light 

92 


SOME    MYSTERIOUS    EVENTS 

flashed  three  times.  A  little  later  he  hurried 
down,  passed  their  door  without  stopping,  and 
went  out  into  the  night,  slamming  the  street  door 
behind  him. 


93 


CHAPTER   VIII 

THE  PLOT   THICKENS,   AND   PEEPLEXITIES   AEE   MET 
WHICH   END   IN   A   SURPRISE 

The  boys  slept  little  during  the  night.  Their 
situation  was  indeed  alarming,  for  Pierre  by  one 
impulsive  act  had  turned  their  uncle  from  a  well- 
wisher  into  a  foe.  He  shuddered  as  he  remem- 
bered the  words  of  Jacques  Ormesson :  "  It  is 
much  wiser  to  have  him  for  a  friend  than  an  ene- 
my." They  were  utterly  dependent  upon  his 
favor,  which  would  undoubtedly  now  be  with- 
drawn. But  in  addition  with  his  resentment 
raised  against  them,  what  harm  might  he  not  do  to 
them  I  Pierre's  estimate  of  his  uncle's  character 
was  none  of  the  highest.  That  he  was  a  man 
who,  in  public  and  concerning  affairs  where  his 
own  interest  might  be  involved,  would  act  with 
scrupulous  courtesy  and  honor  he  well  believed. 
But  where  his  will  was  thwarted  or  his  plans  of 
gain  were  placed  in  jeopardy,  he  felt  that  Cap- 

94 


THE    PLOT    THICKENS 

tain  Bordeleau  would  give  his  natural  bent  for 
cunning  intrigue  full  sway. 

Pierre's  conscience,  however,  was  clear  con- 
cerning his  own  part  in  the  night's  adventure. 
The  fact  of  his  uncle's  unwillingness  to  offer 
some  assurance  regarding  the  meaning  of  the 
mysterious  signals,  made  it  evident  that  the  busi- 
ness in  which  he  was  engaged  was  of  a  nefarious 
nature.  The  boy's  primitive  sense  of  right  and 
wrong  was  strong.  Had  it  not  been  involved,  he 
would  never  have  acted  as  he  had  done,  or  if  so, 
he  would  have  gladly  offered  whatever  apology 
was  necessary.  As  it  was,  it  never  occurred  to 
him  that  he  himself  was  to  blame  in  any  way,  and 
he  felt  assured  that  if  the  thing  were  to  be  done 
over  again,  the  result  would  be  the  same. 

In  a  couple  of  hours  they  heard  their  uncle 
return,  and  the  sounds  of  human  voices  that 
reached  their  ear  betrayed  the  fact  that  he  was 
not  alone.  Shortly  before  dawn  the  voices  ceased 
and  the  boys  recognized  the  same  stealthy  tread 
passing  down  the  hall  that  had  previously  ter- 
rified Jean. 

95 


COMRADES    THREE 

They  were  in  the  midst  of  dressing  when  a 
knock  was  heard  and  Bolo  entered  bearing  their 
breakfast,  together  with  an  order  from  Captain 
Bordeleau  to  the  effect  that  they  should  not  leave 
their  room  until  he  gave  them  permission.  Jean 
looked  at  his  brother  in  dismay.  Evidently  war 
between  themselves  and  their  uncle  was  declared. 
Believing  that  he  would  only  be  still  further  in- 
censed against  them  if  they  disobeyed,  they  re- 
mained all  day  in  their  room,  amusing  themselves 
as  best  they  could  through  the  long  hours,  the 
monotony  being  broken  by  the  arrival  of  Bolo 
at  meal  times.  Pierre  forbore  questioning  him, 
knowing  that  he  was  attached  heart  and  soul  to 
his  master's  interests. 

Bedtime  arrived  and  still  no  further  message 
came.  At  last  when  eleven  o'clock  had  struck 
and  the  house  was  still,  the  two  boys,  who  had 
finally  decided  upon  a  plan,  took  their  guns  and, 
after  bolting  the  door,  quietly  departed  by 
means  of  the  rope  ladder.  The  night  was  cloudy 
with  occasional  glimpses  of  clear  sky  in  which  the 
half-moon  rode  like  a  silver  boat,  dipping  and 

96 


THE    PLOT    THICKENS 

plunging  among  the  fleecy  waves  that  over- 
whelmed her  completely,  only  to  appear  again 
later  victorious.  When  they  touched  the  ground, 
they  quietly  scurried  off,  bent  on  reaching  the 
cave  as  soon  as  possible,  for  they  knew  that  Fran- 
cois would  be  awaiting  their  arrival,  anxious  to 
learn  the  cause  of  their  absence  during  the  day. 
Had  they  stopped  to  look  about  carefully  when 
they  descended,  they  would  have  seen  by  the  light 
of  the  newly  emerged  moon  the  dark  figure  of 
Bolo  crouched  behind  a  corner  of  the  house  watch- 
ing their  movements  intently.  Had  not  their 
hearts  beat  so  loudly  with  excitement  as  they  hur- 
ried to  their  meeting  place,  they  might  have  heard 
the  sound  of  his  light  footfall  as  he  followed 
them  a  short  distance  behind.  When  they 
reached  their  destination  the  dark  face  of  the 
negro  peered  an  instant  through  the  vine  curtain 
at  the  mouth  of  the  cave.  Having  seen  all  he 
wished,  he  silently  glided  homeward,  after  mark- 
ing the  spot  carefully. 

The  two  brothers  found  the  faithful  Francois 
reclining  before  the  fire  as  they  had  expected. 

97 


COMRADES    THREE 

He  glanced  inquiringly  at  the  guns  in  their 
hands. 

"  We  have  met  with  a  real  adventure,"  Pierre 
explained,  "  that  may  necessitate  our  making  this 
hiding  place  our  home  at  a  moment's  notice. 
Hence  we  thought  it  best  to  prepare  in  time  for 
sudden  flight." 

He  thereupon  related  in  full  the  events  of  the 
night  before,  a  proceeding  that  made  Francois 
open  his  eyes  to  an  alarming  extent.  When  his 
companion  finished  his  recital  he  asked  simply, 
"What  can  I  do?" 

"  You?  "  queried  Jean. 

"  Yes,  does  not  that  which  affects  one  member 
of  our  brotherhood  affect  all?  Is  not  your  loss 
my  loss,  and  your  peril  my  peril,  according  to 
our  mutual  agreement  ?  " 

Pierre  and  Jean  sprang  up  impulsively  and 
seized  his  hands.  "  You  give  us  courage,"  cried 
the  former.  "  We  did  not  want  to  involve  you 
in  our  troubles,  and  had  determined  to  release 
you  from  your  promise,"  exclaimed  Jean. 

A  grieved  look  came  over  FrauQois's  face  at 
98 


THE    PLOT    THICKENS 

these  words.  "  And  do  you  think  my  promises 
are  made  only  to  be  withdrawn  at  the  first  mo- 
ment of  testing?  You  would  not  have  wished  to 
be  released  from  your  pledge  had  I  been  the  one 
in  danger." 

"  No,  no !  "  cried  the  other  two. 

"  Then  why  should  you  suppose  that  I  would 
desire  to  seek  cover  at  the  first  sign  of  peril  ?  " 

Pierre  flushed  at  this  reproach.  "  Forgive  us, 
Frangois,  but  we  meant  no  harm.  It  was  only 
your  safety  we  had  in  mind.  We  did  not  wish  to 
bring  upon  you  our  uncle's  displeasure." 

Francois  smiled,  somewhat  mollified.  "  I  un- 
derstand. It  was  your  own  unselfish  regard  for 
me  that  prompted  the  thought.  But  never  fear. 
Your  uncle's  enmity  will  cause  me  no  alarm. 
This  is  a  free  land ;  also  a  large  one.  I  venture 
to  say  I  could  find  some  corner  in  it  where  I  would 
be  beyond  the  reach  of  his  anger." 

Good  feeling  being  thus  restored,  they  dis- 
cussed at  full  length  their  precarious  situation. 
If  Captain  Bordeleau's  resentment  abated,  then 
there  would  be  no  need  of  further  anxiety.    If 

99 


COMRADES    THREE 

not,  then  they  could  speedily  retire  to  this  hiding 
place  and  remain  for  a  time  until  the  sky  cleared. 
With  guns  and  plenty  of  ammunition  they  could 
procure  abundance  of  food,  while  a  canoe  and 
some  fishing  lines,  which  Francois  agreed  to 
bring  the  next  day,  would  enable  them  to  travel 
whither  they  would  and  provide  them  with  addi- 
tional means  of  sustenance. 

Finally,  they  broke  up  their  meeting,  agreeing 
to  assemble  again  on  the  following  night.  Pierre 
and  Jean  reached  their  room  in  safety. 

In  the  morning  Bolo  brought  their  breakfast 
as  before,  and  with  it  a  message  from  Captain 
Bordeleau  requesting  their  presence  in  a  half- 
hour  in  his  library. 

At  the  time  appointed  the  two  boys  descended 
to  the  lower  floor,  not  without  some  feelings  of 
trepidation  and  dread  of  the  approaching  inter- 
view. Would  he  storm  angrily  at  them  for  their 
ingratitude  and  disobedience,  telling  them  to  be- 
gone, that  he  would  henceforth  wash  his  hands  of 
them  and  their  affairs  ?  Or,  worse  still,  would  he 
turn  Pierre  adrift  and  force  Jean  to  stay  with 

100 


THE    PLOT    THICKENS 

him,  thus  separating  them?  They  had  resolved 
that  if  the  latter  were  the  case  they  would  steal 
away  that  night  never  to  return,  trusting  to  a 
Mnd  Providence  and  the  worthy  trader  to  aid  in 
removing  them  far  from  the  power  and  influence 
of  their  uncle. 

Neither  of  these  fears  was  realized,  but  a 
greater  surprise  awaited  them.  When  they  en- 
tered the  room  and  stood  near  the  door  in  some 
embarrassment,  they  were  greeted  with  courtesy 
and  cordiality  by  Captain  Bordeleau,  who  re- 
quested them  to  be  seated.  Then  with  an  encour- 
aging smile  he  began  to  address  them,  looking 
with  kindly  eyes  at  Pierre : 

"  You  doubtless  felt  that  I  had  summoned  you 
to  upbraid  you  for  your  refusal  to  accede  to  my 
request  two  nights  ago.  You  are  mistaken.  Per- 
haps my  words  to  you  at  the  time  were  hasty  and 
ill  advised.  If  so,  I  ask  your  pardon.  When  one 
labors  under  great  excitement,  events  which  ordi- 
narily would  not  ruffle  him  often  cause  transient 
anger.  You  are,  however,  too  young  not  to  have 
some  discipline  in  your  lives ;  hence  my  command 

101 


COMRADES    THREE 

that  you  should  keep  your  room  until  further 
notice,  a  command,"  he  continued  with  an  espe- 
cially engaging  smile,  "  which  I  was  pleased  to 
see  that  you  carefully  obeyed,  for  I  have  not 
heard  you  descend  once,  and  my  servants  have 
not  seen  you  anywhere  about  the  house  while  I 
have  been  absent." 

Jean  blushed  and  looked  down,  feeling  very 
uncomfortable  under  this  praise.  When  his  uncle 
paused  he  opened  his  lips  impulsively  to  speak, 
but  Pierre,  who  noticed  his  action  and  whose 
hand  rested  upon  his  shoulder,  gave  it  an  admoni- 
tory pressure  that  checked  him.  Captain  Borde- 
leau  continued : 

"  That  discipline  having  been  endured,  you  are 
free  now  to  do  as  you  will.  I  would,  however, 
make  a  request — mind  you,  not  a  command — that 
you  do  not  leave  the  house  to-day  or  to-morrow. 
You  will  have  plenty  to  do,  however,  for  I  desire 
that  you  should  make  all  necessary  preparations 
for  a  rather  long  journey.  You  have  had  time  to 
learn  all  that  your  companion,  whom  I  engaged, 
can  teach  you.    I  have  therefore  made  arrange- 

102 


THE    PLOT    THICKENS 

ments  for  you  to  enter  a  broader  field.  It  hap- 
pens that  one  of  my  Indian  trappers,  who  acts  as 
agent  for  me  in  collecting  furs  among  the  Hurons, 
is  in  Quebec  and  returns  to  the  Huron  country  day 
after  to-morrow,  and  it  is  my  wish  that  you  both 
return  with  him.  You  will  be  gone  a  month  and 
will  have  every  advantage  under  his  care  of 
learning  much  concerning  the  friendly  tribes, 
their  customs  and  manner  of  trading,  together 
with  the  life  that  such  people  lead.  The  Indian 
to  whom  I  intrust  you  is  thoroughly  reliable,  and 
will  be  answerable  to  me  for  your  comfort  and 
safety.  He  speaks  very  good  French,  and  is  a 
man  of  great  influence  among  his  own  people. 
You  will  thoroughly  enjoy  as  well  as  profit  by  the 
experience." 

The  minds  of  the  boys  were  filled  with  dismay. 
This  matter  of  being  sent  into  the  wilderness 
among  savages  with  only  one  of  them  as  their 
friend  and  ally,  was  more  than  they  had  bar- 
gained for.  Pierre  started  to  speak,  but  his  uncle 
interrupted  him : 

"  Not  a  word,  mon  cher  ami,  not  one  word  of 
8  103 


COMRADES    THREE 

thanks.  I  know  you  appreciate  fully  the  effort 
I  am  making  in  your  behalf,  and  am  content," 
and  with  a  wave  of  dismissal  toward  the  door 
he  turned  to  his  desk,  and  picking  up  a  paper  be- 
came immediately  engaged  in  its  attentive  peru- 
sal. Neither  of  the  youths  felt  like  interrupting 
him,  so  they  quietly  withdrew  to  their  own  room. 
When  their  door  was  closed  they  gave  vent  to 
their  disapproval.  Jean  strove  manfully  to 
choke  back  the  sobs  that  would  rise  despite  his 
best  endeavors. 

"  0  Pierre !  what  shall  we  do  f  "  he  exclaimed. 
"  We  surely  do  not  want  to  go  so  far  away  from 
all  white  people  with  no  one  but  savages  about 
us." 

"  Never  mind,  Jean,"  replied  Pierre  reas- 
suringly. "  We  do  not  want  to  go  and  we  shall 
not." 

This  firm  determination  was  brought  about  in 
Pierre's  mind  by  his  fancied  detection  of  the 
same  lurking  menace  in  his  uncle's  eyes,  for  all 
his  fair  speaking,  that  he  had  seen  at  the  time 
of  their  first  interview.    This,  together  with  the 

104 


THE    PLOT    THICKENS 

natural  distrust  of  his  uncle's  integrity  occa- 
sioned by  the  affair  of  the  strange  signals,  had 
awakened  the  spirit  of  rebellion  within  him. 
He  determined  to  go  at  once  to  Captain  Borde- 
leau  and  explain  their  dread  of  such  an  expedi- 
tion, and  attempt  to  persuade  him  to  alter  his 
plan  to  an  extended  hunting  trip  under  Fran- 
cois's care,  which  would  undoubtedly  be  of  much 
benefit  to  them.  Before  he  could  put  this  resolve 
into  effect  he  heard  the  front  door  close,  and 
going  to  a  window  at  the  front  of  the  house  he 
saw  his  uncle  hurrying  down  the  street.  This 
necessitated  a  postponement  of  the  contemplated 
interview. 

At  dinner  the  boys  were  alone.  The  afternoon 
was  spent  awaiting  Captain  Bordeleau's  return. 
Supper  was  eaten,  and  still  he  had  not  come  back. 
Finally,  at  about  ten  o'clock  the  two  boys  de- 
scended their  ladder  and  stole  in  a  circuitous 
track  to  the  house  of  Jacques  Ormesson.  They 
felt  that  they  needed  his  advice  in  the  present 
crisis.  They  found  him  just  closing  up  for  the 
night,  but  he  welcomed  them  heartily  and  sat 

105 


COMRADES    THREE 

down  with  them  to  learn  if  they  had  any  news  to 
communicate. 

Pierre  began  with  the  relation  of  the  scene  in 
their  room  over  the  signal  question.  As  he  pro- 
ceeded, Ormesson's  eyes  opened  with  interest, 
although  his  brow  darkened.  When  Pierre  de- 
scribed his  refusal  to  become  a  party  to  the 
affair  without  knowing  something  of  its  pur- 
pose, he  chuckled  with  approval,  but  when  he 
learned  of  Pierre's  attempt  at  preventing  his 
uncle  from  flashing  back  an  answering  light,  he 
burst  into  a  shout  of  commendation.  "  Bravo !  " 
he  cried,  "  that  is  the  sort  of  spirit  that  I  like." 
The  imprisonment  in  their  room  and  the  inter- 
view of  that  morning  were  next  related.  Ormes- 
son's face  denoted  genuine  alarm.  "  Never !  "  he 
exclaimed.  "  It  was  on  just  such  a  trip  as  that 
that  he  sent  your  father  to  his  death.  You  must 
not  go." 

He  approved  heartily  of  Pierre's  plan  to  en- 
deavor to  alter  his  uncle's  purpose,  but  without 
much  faith  in  its  success. 

"  If  he  still  persists,"  he  continued,  "  there  is 
106 


THE    PLOT    THICKENS 

but  one  thing  to  do;  seek  refuge  in  the  hiding 
place  you  have  told  me  about."  Then  relapsing 
into  a  meditative  silence  he  began  to  frown  more 
deeply.  "  No,"  he  finally  said,  "  that  would  ac- 
complish nothing  and  it  might  be  dangerous  to 
delay.  I  feel  assured  he  has  some  scheme  on 
foot  for  your  harm.  Escape  to-night  while  you 
can  to  your  cave.  Let  Francois  keep  in  touch 
with  me  occasionally,  and  I  shall  endeavor  to  plan 
out  your  future  actions.  I  would  insist  on  your 
coming  here,  but  you  would  run  a  risk  through 
my  assistant,  who,  although  a  worthy  fellow, 
might  possibly  let  something  slip  that  would  be 
disastrous." 

After  leaving  their  friend  the  boys  decided  to 
return  home  and  get  their  hunting  clothes  and  a 
few  other  little  things.  On  arriving  there  they 
found  the  house  dark  and  silent.  They  made 
their  way  up  the  ladder  and  entered  their  room. 
Nothing  had  been  disturbed  during  their  ab- 
sence. Quickly  gathering  together  what  they 
wished,  they  took  their  departure,  waving  fare- 
well to  the  house  that  after  all  was  the  only  home 

107 


COMRADES    THREE 

they  had  in  spite  of  the  unpleasant  occurrences 
that  had  happened  within  its  walls. 

They  reached  the  cave  and  found  FranQois  a 
trifle  uneasy  at  their  delay.  When  told  about 
their  uncle's  proposed  trip  for  them,  his  eyes 
flashed  ominously.  When  he  learned  that  they 
had  really  left  him,  and  were  come  to  take  up 
their  residence  in  the  cave,  he  waxed  enthusiastic 
as  the  spirit  of  adventure  rose  within  him. 

They  carefully  placed  the  things  which  they 
had  brought  with  them  alongside  their  guns  in 
the  farther  end  of  the  cave,  exchanged  the  clothes 
they  wore  for  their  hunting  attire,  and  then 
stretched  themselves  lazily  before  the  fire  to  rest 
and  talk  over  future  plans.  They  were  deeply 
engrossed  in  this  occupation  when  a  slight  sound 
from  the  direction  of  the  entrance  caused  them  to 
glance  up.  Imagine  their  surprise  on  beholding 
the  forms  of  three  Indians  standing  near,  each 
with  his  rifle  pointed  straight  at  them. 


108 


"  Three  Indians  .   .  .   each  with  his  rifle  jx)inted  straight 
at  them." 


CHAPTER   IX 

DESCRIBES   A   LONG   JOURNEY   AND   MUCH 
DISCOURAGEMENT 

The  three  boys  looked  in  consternation  at  the 
threatening  gun  muzzles  that  covered  them,  then 
at  one  another,  without  venturing  to  stir.  They 
all  instinctively  appreciated  the  uselessness  of 
resistance.  Their  own  weapons  were  stacked  in 
a  far  corner  of  the  cave,  entirely  out  of  reach. 
Their  assailants,  besides  being  armed,  were  all 
full-grown  men  against  whose  strength  they  were 
no  match. 

A  moment  of  motionless  silence  followed. 
Then  a  fourth  savage,  who  had  remained  con- 
cealed behind  the  others,  stalked  forth  into  the 
light,  holding  several  short  pieces  of  rope,  with 
which  he  proceeded  to  bind  the  hands  and  feet 
of  the  boys  together,  rendering  them  entirely 
helpless.    He  then  carefully  gagged  each  so  that 

109 


COMRADES    THREE 

it  would  be  impossible  for  him  to  cry  out.  When 
this  was  accomplished  the  guns  were  lowered  and 
the  captors  squatted  together  near  the  fire  to 
warm  themselves,  conversing  in  low  guttural 
tones. 

Jean,  as  he  lay  watching  the  firelight  playing 
upon  their  faces,  gave  a  start  of  surprise  when 
he  viewed  that  of  the  leader,  for  in  him  he  recog- 
nized the  mysterious  visitor  at  his  uncle's  house 
whose  presence  had  so  terrified  him.  This  dis- 
covery greatly  increased  his  alarm.  His  first 
thought  was  that  they  had  been  seen  and  fol- 
lowed to  their  rendezvous  by  the  Indians  with  the 
idea  of  capturing  them  and  holding  them  for  ran- 
som or  to  exchange  them  for  some  of  their  own 
tribe,  perhaps,  that  were  then  in  the  hands  of  the 
French.  But  if,  as  it  appeared,  Captain  Borde- 
leau  had  a  hand  in  the  affair,  it  boded  worse  for 
them. 

He  was  interrupted  in  his  train  of  thought  by 
a  spirited  argument  that  arose  among  the  Indians. 
From  the  glances  cast  at  the  prostrate  Frangois  it 
was  evident  that  he  was  the  subject  of  their  con- 

110 


A    LONG    JOURNEY 

versation.  The  leader  seemed  to  be  trying  to 
convince  his  confederates  of  the  necessity  of 
taking  him  with  them  instead  of  leaving  him  be- 
hind, as  they  apparently  wished  to  do.  At  last 
the  debate  ended  by  their  acquiescing  in  their 
chief's  view,  for  they  rose  and  lifting  Frangois 
between  them  carried  him  out  of  the  cave.  A 
moment  or  two  later  they  returned  and  removed 
Pierre.    Finally,  Jean,  too,  was  taken. 

By  the  light  of  the  moon  two  canoes  were  vis- 
ible drawn  up  on  the  shore.  Francois  was  placed 
in  the  bottom  of  one  of  them,  while  the  two  broth- 
ers were  laid  in  the  other.  Two  Indians  then 
entered  each  canoe,  pushed  off,  and  soon  they 
were  silently  gliding  over  the  surface  of  the 
river.  A  diagonal  course  was  taken  at  first  until 
the  opposite  shore  was  near,  when  the  prows 
were  pointed  directly  upstream.  The  few  lights 
still  burning  in  Quebec  were  soon  passed,  but 
their  speed  was  not  slackened.  On  with  tireless 
paddle  stroke  they  dashed,  the  only  sound  audible 
to  the  recumbent  captives  being  the  gurgling  of 
the  waters  beneath  them. 

Ill 


COMRADES    THREE 

Several  hours  went  by.  Finally,  when  the  first 
gray  of  dawn  came  a  landing  was  made.  The 
boys,  stiff  and  cold,  were  lifted  out,  the  canoes 
were  hidden  behind  some  bushes  near  the  water's 
edge,  and  the  whole  party  withdrew  into  the 
woods.  Here  a  tiny  fire  was  made,  over  which 
they  shivered  for  a  while.  The  gags  were  re- 
moved from  the  boys'  mouths  and  food  and  water 
were  given  them.  Being  thus  refreshed,  a  few 
pine  boughs  were  heaped  together ;  they  were  then 
placed  thereon  and  bidden  to  sleep.  The  Indians 
likewise  stretched  themselves  out  wearily  and 
soon  were  deep  in  slumber.  All  danger  of  noise 
being  gone,  the  gags  had  not  been  replaced.  This 
was  some  alleviation  to  their  misery,  although 
they  suffered  considerably  from  the  chafing  of 
their  bonds.  When  the  deep  breathing  of  the 
savages  had  persisted  regularly  for  an  hour,  the 
captives  deemed  it  safe  to  converse  with  one  an- 
other in  low  whispers.  They  discussed  their 
situation  thoroughly  and  endeavored  to  cheer  one 
another  up.  Frangois,  although  well  acquainted 
with  the  Indian  tongue,  had  been  unable  to  over- 

112 


A    LONG    JOURNEY 

hear  any  conversation  among  the  savages,  hence 
was  unenlightened  from  that  source.  Jean  re- 
ported his  discovery  as  to  the  identity  of  the 
leader  of  the  band.  This  news  so  effectually 
dampened  the  spirits  of  the  three  that  after  a  few 
desultory  attempts  at  mutual  encouragement 
they  gave  up  and  soon  were  sleeping  with  the 
rest. 

When  they  awakened  they  found  it  was  late 
afternoon.  One  of  the  Indians  was  cooking  at 
the  fire  a  couple  of  birds  and  a  rabbit,  which  he 
had  knocked  over  with  well-aimed  blows  of  his 
hatchet.  The  boys  were  hungry  and  partook 
readily  of  the  food  offered  them.  This,  together 
with  some  brandy  which  the  leader  poured  out 
for  them  from  a  receptacle  which  he  jealously 
guarded,  strengthened  them  to  endure  the  fa- 
tigue of  their  journey. 

In  this  fashion  did  they  proceed,  traveling  by 
night  and  resting  in  hidden  security  by  day. 
,  When  the  chief  settlements,  such  as  Three  Rivers 
or  Montreal,  were  reached,  the  gags  were  re- 
placed lest  a  warning  cry  should  bring  pursuit. 

113 


COMRADES    THREE 

At  length  upon  their  right  appeared  the  en- 
trance of  a  smaller  stream,  the  Ottawa,  into  which 
they  turned.  At  their  next  camping  place  not 
only  were  the  gags  removed,  but  the  ropes  which 
bound  the  captives  so  cruelly  were  taken  off. 
Evidently  all  danger  of  capture  or  escape  of  the 
prisoners  was  at  an  end.  One  of  the  savages 
rubbed  their  wrists  and  ankles  until  the  circula- 
tion was  entirely  restored  and  the  stiffness 
gone.  Henceforward  they  could  kneel  in  the 
canoes  like  the  Indians,  and  see  something  of  the 
country  through  which  they  were  going.  Travel- 
ing was  now  done  in  the  daytime  and  their  rest 
taken  at  night.  They  were  treated  kindly  by 
their  captors,  who  allowed  them  considerable  lib- 
erty, although  they  always  kept  a  close  watch  of 
their  movements.  The  bright,  clear  air,  the 
changing  scene,  the  occasional  use  of  the  paddle, 
the  tramp  through  the  woods  at  the  portage,  the 
glad  relaxation  of  tired  limbs  as  they  reclined 
upon  the  springy  boughs  at  night — all  would 
have  been  delightful  had  not  the  haunting 
thought  that  they  were  prisoners  being  conveyed 

114 


A    LONG    JOURNEY 

toward  a  mysterious  fate  disturbed  their 
minds. 

The  only  precaution  to  insure  against  their  es- 
cape was  taken  at  night,  when  each  boy's  wrists 
were  fastened  securely  by  a  short  rope  to  the  arm 
of  one  of  his  captors.  The  discipline  among  the 
Indians  themselves  was  also  relaxed.  A  more 
leisurely  course  was  pursued.  They  shot  abun- 
dant game  without  fear  of  the  sound  of  their 
firearms.  At  night  about  the  camp  fire  they  par- 
took freely  of  their  stock  of  brandy. 

One  night  it  chanced  that  more  of  this  was 
taken  than  usual,  until  the  redskins  became  some- 
what stupid  and  surly.  Their  demeanor  toward 
the  boys  changed,  and  an  attitude  of  insolent 
authority  was  assumed.  They  were  ordered  to 
replenish  the  fire,  to  prepare  the  boughs  for  their 
couches,  and  do  other  menial  tasks.  They  obeyed 
willingly,  fearing  to  provoke  their  enemies  while 
under  the  influence  of  the  potent  liquor.  Finally, 
FrauQois  was  commanded  by  the  leader  to  step 
to  the  canoes,  which  were  stranded  on  the  shore 
a  hundred  yards  away,  and  fetch  some  tobacco 

115 


COMRADES    THREE 

which  he  would  find  in  one  of  them.  He  disap- 
peared on  his  errand.  Upon  his  not  returning 
in  a  few  minutes  the  leader  grew  angry  at  the 
delay  and  sent  one  of  the  Indians  after  him. 
Presently  a  shout  of  alarm  was  heard  and  the 
savage  returned  in  great  excitement.  Motioning 
to  the  captives  to  precede  them,  each  of  the  red- 
skins lighted  a  pine  stick  and  running  to  the 
shore  they  discovered  that  the  alarm  of  their 
comrade  was  well  founded,  for  the  smaller  canoe, 
containing  a  portion  of  their  provisions,  a  gun, 
and  some  ammunition,  had  disappeared.  Fran- 
Qois  had  escaped!  Two  of  them  sprang  to  the 
larger  canoe  to  shove  off  in  hot  pursuit  when  a 
cry  of  rage  from  one  of  their  number  revealed 
the  fact  that  before  leaving  Frangois  had  taken 
pains  to  stave  a  huge  hole  in  its  bottom  that  ren- 
dered it  useless.  What  was  worse,  it  was  beyond 
repair.  A  simultaneous  yell  of  anger  from  the 
throats  of  their  captors  made  Pierre  and  Jean 
tremble  for  their  own  safety. 

The  entire  party  returned  to  the  camp  fire. 
The  leader  superintended  the  tying  of  the  wrists 

116 


A   LONG    JOURNEY 

and  ankles  of  the  brothers,  and  appointed  one  of 
his  men  to  stand  on  guard  until  relieved  a  few 
hours  later  by  a  second,  thus  dividing  the  sleeping 
time  into  three  equal  periods,  he  himself  choosing 
to  sleep  all  night.  Pierre  and  Jean  lay  a  long  time 
in  deep  dejection.  The  sentry  stationed  near 
them  remained  wide  awake  so  that  they  could  not 
talk  to  one  another,  and  they  were  thus  left  alone 
with  their  own  thoughts,  which  were  discour- 
aging enough.  As  long  as  Francois  was  with 
them  they  had  felt  a  sense  of  security,  and  a 
vague  hope  that  somehow  with  his  assistance 
they  might  effect  their  escape,  but  now  that  he 
was  gone  they  realized  more  fully  their  utter 
helplessness.  That  he  had  seized  this  opportu- 
nity of  getting  away  for  any  selfish  end  they  did 
not  for  a  moment  believe.  They  knew  he  would 
use  his  best  endeavors  to  bring  them  assistance. 
But  even  if  he  were  able  to  make  the  journey 
back  to  Montreal  without  interruption,  it  would 
be  several  weeks  before  he  could  return  with  a 
force  sufficient  to  compel  the  Indians  to  release 
their  prisoners.    He  had  discovered  that  their 

117 


COMRADES    THREE 

captors  were  members  of  an  Algonquin  tribe 
whose  remnants  still  roamed  the  regions  of  the 
Upper  Ottawa.  But  they  were  a  migratory  peo- 
ple who  stayed  but  a  short  time  in  any  one  place. 
Hence  it  would  be  extremely  diflBcult  for  him  to 
discover  them  on  his  return.  Even  if  this  feat 
were  possible,  so  long  a  time  would  necessarily 
elapse  that  any  one  of  several  horrible  fates 
might  easily  be  theirs.  Their  sudden  surprise 
and  treatment  as  prisoners  told  them  too  plainly 
that  their  uncle's  description  of  a  peaceable 
hunting  trip  was  false.  Thus  tormented  by 
foreboding  thoughts,  and  disturbed  by  fearful 
dreams,  they  tossed  the  long  night  through, 
awaking  often  only  to  find  the  eye  of  the  wary 
sentinel  fixed  upon  them. 

The  loss  of  their  canoes  necessitated  important 
changes  in  the  plans  of  the  savages.  Abandoning 
the  river  they  made  ready  to  continue  their  jour- 
ney by  land.  The  contents  of  the  large  canoe 
were  accordingly  distributed  among  them  all,  the 
boys  being  compelled  to  carry  their  share.  A 
start  was  then  made,  the  party  proceeding  in 

118 


A   LONG    JOURNEY 

single  file,  two  of  the  Indians  leading,  closely 
followed  by  the  prisoners,  while  the  remaining 
savages  brought  up  the  rear. 

Their  progress  was  inevitably  slow,  as  it  was 
necessary  to  accommodate  the  pace  of  all  to  the 
strength  of  the  brothers.  At  nightfall  they  were 
entirely  worn  out,  their  feet  were  swollen,  hot, 
and  tender,  while  their  shoulders  ached  from 
carrying  the  heavy  load.  They  flung  themselves 
down  in  utter  exhaustion,  until  they  were  roused 
by  one  of  the  savages  who  brought  them  some 
food.  After  this  was  eaten  they  fell  into  a  heavy 
sleep. 

The  next  morning  their  condition  was  but  little 
improved.  Nevertheless  they  were  obliged  to 
start  despite  their  blisters  and  stiffened  ankles. 
Frequent  stops  were  made  during  the  day,  as  it 
became  apparent  that  the  boys  would  soon  be  ab- 
solutely unable  to  stand  unless  great  care  was 
exercised.  Thus  did  they  proceed  through  the 
forest,  fording  tiny  streams,  plowing  through 
bits  of  swampland,  painfully  toiling  up  an  occa- 
sional steep  ascent. 

9  119 


COMRADES    THREE 

Gradually  the  boys  became  hardened  to  the 
work,  and  they  were  able  to  increase  their  rate  of 
speed. 

Finally,  from  a  few  words  of  encouragement 
spoken  to  them  by  the  leader,  they  knew  that  their 
journey  was  near  its  end.  The  next  day  a  hunt- 
ing party  of  six  was  met  with,  who  greeted  the 
newcomers  cordially  and  eyed  the  prisoners  with 
considerable  curiosity,  followed  by  looks  of  sat- 
isfaction when  an  explanation  was  offered  them 
in  a  low  tone  by  the  leader,  a  circumstance  that 
seemed  certainly  ominous  to  the  unhappy  boys. 

Toward  evening  the  distant  yelping  of  dogs 
was  heard,  followed  later  by  the  cries  of  children. 
The  woods  thinned  out  considerably  until  they 
disappeared  entirely  in  an  open  place  some  five 
acres  in  extent,  on  which  was  erected  an  Indian 
village,  consisting  of  some  thirty  rude  bark  huts. 
When  their  arrival  was  perceived,  a  succession 
of  shouts  arose  and  soon  they  were  surrounded 
by  a  crowd  of  excited  savages — warriors,  squaws, 
and  children — all  of  whom  attempted  to  talk  at 
once.    When  the  confusion  had  subsided  a  little, 

120 


A    LONG    JOURNEY 

the  boys  were  taken  to  one  of  the  huts.  Here 
they  were  securely  tied  hand  and  foot  and  left 
to  themselves,  either  to  sleep  or  listen  to  the 
strange  sounds  arising  on  all  sides,  sounds  com- 
mon enough  in  any  Indian  village,  but  which  to 
their  unaccustomed  ears  were  fraught  with  fore- 
bodings of  disaster. 


121 


CHAPTER   X 

IN     WHICH     THE     COUEAGE     OP     THE     CAPTIVES     IS 
SEVERELY   TESTED 

There  came  a  time  at  length  when  the  com- 
motion about  them  subsided  and  silence  reigned 
as  the  inhabitants  of  the  village  sought  their  rest. 
Pierre  and  Jean,  however,  found  it  impossible  to 
sleep.  Their  strange  surroundings  coupled  with 
the  thoughts  of  their  perilous  situation  kept  them 
wide  awake.  After  talking  for  some  time  Pierre 
determined  to  explore  their  prison.  Bound  hand 
and  foot  as  he  was  he  was  unable  to  walk,  so  he 
attempted  to  move  about  by  rolling  his  body  over 
and  over  the  smooth  dirt  floor.  By  this  slow 
means  he  made  his  way  toward  the  entrance, 
which  was  closed  by  a  huge  bearskin.  This,  how- 
ever, did  not  fit  the  aperture  completely,  but  left 
several  openings  close  to  the  ground  through 
which  he  was  able  to  peep.    Peering  cautiously 

122 


COURAGE    TESTED 

out  he  beheld  a  fire  burning  a  short  distance  in 
front  of  the  hut,  before  which  a  solitary  Indian 
sat  smoking,  evidently  a  guard  stationed  to  pre- 
vent their  possible  escape.  As  Pierre  watched 
him  he  yawned  several  times,  stretched  vigor- 
ously as  though  very  tired,  then  got  up,  replen- 
ished the  fire,  and  lay  down.  The  light  of  the 
flames  as  they  shot  up  disclosed  another  hut  close 
to  that  in  which  they  were  confined.  These  two 
huts  seemed  to  be  separated  a  little  from  the  rest 
of  the  village.  Close  behind  them  yawned  the 
blackness  of  the  forest.  Pierre  by  careful  obser- 
vation was  able  to  determine  something  of  the 
outside  structure  of  his  prison.  The  walls  seemed 
to  consist  of  a  framework  of  poles  planted  in  the 
ground,  the  intervening  spaces  being  covered 
with  bark.  How  easy  it  would  be  to  cut  their  way 
out  if  their  hands  were  but  free  and  his  keen  hunt- 
ing knife  were  only  with  them !  He  very  sensibly 
did  not  waste  any  time  in  idle  wishing,  but  after 
another  glance  around  returned  to  Jean  and  ex- 
plained the  results  of  his  investigations. 

Suddenly,  while  thus  engaged,  a  sound  arose 
123 


COMRADES    THREE 

that  chilled  them  both  to  the  bone.  It  was  a  hu- 
man voice  raised  in  a  prolonged  feeble  wail. 
Again  its  weird  note  sounded,  then  died  away. 
Judging  from  the  direction  of  the  cry  Pierre  was 
convinced  that  it  came  from  the  neighboring  hut 
which  he  had  seen. 

"  How  horrible !  "  whispered  Jean,  his  teeth 
chattering  with  terror. 

"  Yes,"  replied  Pierre,  no  less  disturbed,  for  it 
brought  the  thought  of  some  unfortunate  in  great 
pain,  a  prisoner  like  themselves,  perhaps,  who 
had  undergone  some  savage  torture.  "  But  lis- 
ten !  perhaps  it  will  sound  again." 

The  two  boys  waited  breathless,  but  the  cry 
was  not  repeated.  Instead  they  heard  a  low  mut- 
tering. Now  and  then  a  few  French  words  were 
intelligible,  but  no  sense  could  be  made  from 
them.  Both  the  brothers  uttered  a  smothered  ex- 
clamation, for  they  recognized  the  voice  as  that 
of  a  white  man ! 

Jean,  whose  tender  heart  was  touched,  began 
to  cry  softly  to  himself.  The  hardships  he  had 
undergone  recently,  together  with  his  anxiety, 

124 


COURAGE    TESTED 

had  been  too  much  of  a  nervous  strain  for  him. 
This  cry  of  suffering  from  French  lips  appealed 
strongly  to  his  sympathies.  Pierre,  too,  was 
greatly  moved. 

"  Fiends  and  cowards !  "  he  muttered,  writhing 
impotently  as  he  strove  to  free  himself  from  his 
bonds,  "who  torture  one  poor,  helpless  fellow 
who  happens  to  be  in  their  power.  A  single 
Frenchman  is  worth  a  tribe  of  these  red  devils !  " 

The  muttering  sound  ceased,  and  no  further 
noise  was  heard  from  that  direction.  The  boys 
were  thus  left  alone  to  their  own  thoughts,  which 
were  despondent  to  a  high  degree.  Silence  still 
reigned  about  them.  Only  the  mysterious  night 
sounds  of  the  woods  were  audible  in  the  distance. 
An  owl  in  some  far-off  tree  began  its  weird  hoot- 
ing. Pierre  gave  an  impatient  groan  at  the 
sound.  They  had  had  enough  to  endure  without 
its  uncanny  cry.  Finally,  to  divert  his  mind  he 
began  counting  the  hoots,  and  as  he  counted  he 
unconsciously  translated  the  numbers  into  the 
letters  of  the  secret  code  of  the  brotherhood. 
Imagine  his   surprise  when  he  found  himself 

125 


COMRADES    THREE 

spelling  out  the  letters  P-I-E-R-R-E.  This  was 
repeated  three  times  and  then  the  sound  ceased. 
In  a  flash  he  understood.  It  was  the  faithful 
Frangois  signaling  to  them.  He  hurriedly  ex- 
plained his  discovery  to  Jean.  The  two  boys 
then  awaited  with  feverish  interest  a  renewal  of 
the  cries.  They  were  soon  rewarded.  "  I-T — 
I-S— F-R-A-N-Q-0-I-S,"  was  the  next  communi- 
cation. A  thrill  of  joy  and  renewed  hope  filled 
them.  "  T-A-K-E— C-0-U-R-A-G-E,"  came  the 
cheering  sound.  Then  the  hooting  ceased,  and 
the  quavering  cry  of  some  other  night  bird  took 
up  the  burden  of  the  message.  "  S-T-A-N-D 
— 0-U-T-S-I-D-E— Y-O-U-R— D-O-O-R— T-0- 
M-0-R-R-O-W— S-0— I— C-A-N— S-E-E— 
W-H-I-C-H— H-U-T— Y-O-U— 0-C-C-U-P-Y." 

The  signal  ended,  and  the  boys,  comforted, 
sank  into  a  quiet  sleep. 

They  were  awakened  in  the  morning  by  the 
entrance  of  one  of  their  captors  bearing  food. 
This  consisted  of  some  underdone  meat  and  sev- 
eral cakes  made  of  pounded  maize  mixed  with 
water  and  baked  on  the  hot  stones.    They  were 

126 


COURAGE    TESTED 

very  hungry  and  eagerly  devoured  the  latter,  but 
the  meat  they  found  tough  and  unpalatable. 
They  did  the  best  they  could,  however,  fearing  to 
offend  by  their  refusal.  Soon  the  Indian  re- 
turned to  bind  their  wrists  again  after  they  had 
finished  their  breakfast.  Pierre  asked  to  see  the 
leader  of  the  band,  whom  he  knew  spoke  and  un- 
derstood French.  In  a  few  minutes  he  appeared. 
Pierre  then  requested  that  they  be  allowed  to 
stand  outside  in  the  sunlight,  complaining  of  the 
chill  and  closeness  of  their  prison.  After  a  mo- 
ment's hesitation  he  assented,  giving  directions 
that  their  ankle  bonds  should  be  loosed  so  that 
they  could  stand  upright.  Their  wrists,  however, 
remained  tied.  Pierre  ventured  to  ask  him  what 
they  intended  doing  with  them  and  when  they 
should  be  restored  to  liberty,  promising  him  a 
good  reward  from  Jacques  Ormesson  if  they 
were  returned  to  Quebec  at  once.  The  only  an- 
swer was  a  grim  shake  of  the  head. 

The  boys  enjoyed  the  change  from  the  dark- 
ness of  the  hut,  and  stood  or  sat  as  conspicuously 
as  possible  in  front  of  the  door  during  the  day. 

127 


COMRADES    THREE 

They  knew  the  eye  of  FranQois  would  be  search- 
ing for  them  from  some  hiding  place.  Toward 
evening  they  were  led  back  inside,  their  ankles 
again  tied  securely,  and  after  being  given  more 
food,  they  were  left  to  themselves.  They  awaited 
anxiously  for  the  time  of  FrauQois's  arrival. 
Surmising  that  he  would  approach  from  the 
forest,  they  rolled  themselves  to  the  side  of  their 
prison  facing  in  that  direction.  The  same  sounds 
of  suffering  in  the  adjoining  hut  greeted  their 
ears  when  the  village  had  settled  to  its  slumbers. 
A  few  bird  cries  were  heard,  but  none  that  could 
be  interpreted  as  signals. 

Finally,  when  their  patience  seemed  about  ex- 
hausted, they  detected  a  slight  rustling  outside, 
close  to  the  spot  where  they  were  lying.  This 
stopped,  and  a  muflBed  tapping  was  heard  against 
the  bark  covering  the  hut. 

Emboldened  by  this  sound,  Pierre  called  in  a 
low  whisper : 

"  FrauQois !  is  that  you  1 " 

"  Yes,"  came  the  reply  from  the  outside. 

"  Grace  a  Dieu!  "  murmured  Pierre  devoutly. 
128 


COURAGE    TESTED 

"  Hush !  "  came  the  warning  voice  of  FranQois. 
"  Do  not  speak  any  louder  than  necessary ;  there 
is  no  telling  what  eager  ears  may  be  listening. 
I  only  wanted  to  tell  you  that  you  are  in  immi- 
nent danger.  Be  ready  to  escape  to-morrow 
night  when  I  come.  Conceal  as  much  of  your 
food  as  you  can  about  you,  so  that  you  may  have 
something  to  eat  on  our  return  journey.  I  hear 
some  one  coming !  Good  night !  Have  courage 
and  all  will  be  well." 

With  these  words  Francois  made  his  retreat, 
while  the  two  boys  hastily  rolled  themselves 
toward  the  middle  of  the  floor.  The  bearskin  at 
the  entrance  was  lifted,  and  their  guard  entered 
to  see  that  all  was  well.  A  glance  at  the  captives 
lying  where  he  had  left  them  apparently  asleep 
satisfied  him,  for  he  immediately  quitted  the  hut, 
leaving  its  inmates  to  try  and  obtain  the  rest 
necessary  to  fortify  themselves  against  the  events 
of  the  morrow. 

In  the  morning  word  was  brought  them  that 
they  were  to  seat  themselves  outside  the  door  of 
the  hut  and  remain  there  all  day  until  permission 

129 


COMRADES    THREE 

was  given  them  to  reenter  it.  This  message 
caused  the  boys  considerable  uneasiness,  as  it 
seemed  to  intimate  that  something  unusual  was 
about  to  occur.  Their  anxiety  proved  to  be  well 
grounded,  for  before  noon  a  shouting  was  heard 
in  the  forest  near  by,  which  was  quickly  an- 
swered by  the  villagers.  In  a  few  moments  a 
crashing  in  the  underbrush  was  heard  and  a 
party  of  about  a  dozen  newcomers  appeared, 
leading  in  their  midst  a  captive  Indian.  Their 
arrival  was  greeted  with  shrieks  of  joy,  and  they 
were  immediately  surrounded  by  a  jabbering, 
gesticulating  crowd,  who  welcomed  them  even 
more  vociferously  when  they  beheld  their  pris- 
oner. He  was  led  to  a  point  not  far  from  that 
where  Pierre  and  Jean  were  stationed,  and  a  pile 
of  skins  being  thrown  on  the  ground,  he  was 
urged  to  seat  himself  thereon.  The  boys  were 
much  surprised  at  the  courtesy  and  attention 
with  which  he  was  treated,  so  marked  a  contrast 
to  the  indifference  and  neglect  which  had  been 
their  lot.  Food  was  brought  in  great  abundance 
and  placed  before  him,  several  of  his  captors 

130 


COURAGE    TESTED 

kneeling  beside  him  and  feeding  him.  The  pris- 
oner, a  young  man  of  remarkable  physical  devel- 
opment, accepted  all  of  these  civilities  with  a 
stolid  face,  betraying  neither  pleasure  nor  dis- 
taste at  the  actions  of  his  enemies.  When  he  had 
finished  a  hearty  meal  he  was  left  to  himself,  save 
a  guard  who  stood  near,  the  rest  of  the  people 
having  apparently  satisfied  their  curiosity  con- 
cerning him. 

Soon  the  brothers'  attention  was  attracted  by 
a  group  of  savages  who  were  engaged  in  erecting 
a  sort  of  scaffold  in  the  open  space  in  the  center 
of  the  village,  about  six  feet  from  the  ground. 
Near  at  hand  another  party  were  digging  a  hole 
in  which  they  planted  a  huge  stake  formed  from 
a  young  green  tree  shorn  of  its  branches,  A  few 
paces  farther  on  a  pile  of  dried  sticks  and  twigs 
was  heaped  up  by  the  women  and  children,  who 
ranged  the  near-by  forest,  returning  well  laden 
with  this  inflammable  material.  Still  others  pre- 
pared two  supports  with  a  crosspiece  on  which 
several  large  kettles  partly  filled  with  water  were 
swung.     These  sights  aroused  the  boys'  curi- 

131 


COMRADES    THREE 

osity,  without  at  first  affording  any  clew  to  their 
meaning. 

But,  when  the  heaps  of  dried  wood  were 
placed  underneath  the  kettles  and  about  the 
stake,  there  suddenly  flashed  across  Pierre's 
mind  the  recollection  of  the  tales  he  had  heard  of 
the  horrible  atrocities  perpetrated  by  the  In- 
dians— the  fiendish  torture  of  hapless  prisoners, 
white  or  red,  and  the  cannibalistic  feast  that 
frequently  followed.  He  understood  now  the 
meaning  of  these  deliberate  preparations,  and 
the  reason  why  they  had  been  commanded  to  re- 
main outside  the  door  of  their  hut.  Some  terrible 
scene  of  savage  cruelty  was  to  be  enacted,  and  it 
was  decreed  that  they  should  be  unwilling  spec- 
tators of  the  horrible  sight.  He  explained  his 
fears  to  Jean,  who  paled  a  little  at  his  brother's 
suggestion,  but  betrayed  by  a  firmer  pressure  of 
the  lips  and  a  resolute  look  of  the  eyes,  his  manly 
determination  to  face  whatever  harrowing  spec- 
tacle might  be  in  store  for  them  with  all  the  for- 
titude he  was  able  to  summon. 

Finally,  the  preliminaries  were  arranged.  All 
132 


-^  COURAGE    TESTED 

labor  ceased,  and  the  inhabitants  of  the  village 
assembled  in  a  huge  elongated  semicircle,  with 
the  open  side  toward  the  boys,  who  could  thus  see 
everything  that  transpired.  A  deputation  of  the 
chief  men  approached  the  prisoner,  removed  his 
bonds,  and  assisted  him  with  every  appearance  of 
kindness  to  arise.  "  Come,"  cried  one  in  a  coaxing 
voice,  "  will  you  not  dance  and  sing  for  us,  who 
are  your  friends  ?  "  Another  exclaimed :  "  See, 
the  sun  is  bright ;  the  camp  fires  in  your  Iroquois 
towns  far  away  burn  high.  Tell  us  of  your  own 
deeds,  of  the  bravery  of  your  tribe;  how  many 
bears  and  moose  you  have  killed,  the  number  of 
enemies  you  have  slain." 

In  compliance,  the  captive  stood  calmly  sur- 
veying the  assembly  of  his  tormentors  with  sim- 
ple dignity  and  scorn.  Although  he  knew  full 
well  the  diabolical  ingenuity  that  they  would 
exercise  for  his  torture,  while  before  his  eyes 
there  lay  all  the  arrangements  for  a  revolting 
and  agonizing  death,  yet  he  showed  no  sign  of 
fear.  His  lips  did  not  tremble  nor  his  heart 
quail  before  the  ferocious  hatred  that  he  recog- 

133 


COMRADES    THREE 

nized  lying  back  of  the  friendly  glances.  Slowly 
and  in  perfect  measure  did  he  begin  his  march, 
stamping  the  ground  and  swaying  his  body  from 
side  to  side,  his  voice  raised  in  liquid,  modulated 
tones,  that  were  preliminary  to  the  coming  words. 
Before  them  all  he  passed,  proudly  defiant,  bold, 
courageous.  Soon  his  steps  quickened,  his  move- 
ments became  more  animated  as  his  chant  burst 
into  the  full  sweep  of  his  death  song.  Boastfully 
he  sang  of  the  power  of  his  people,  of  their  num- 
ber, their  greatness,  and  their  glory.  With  in- 
creasing arrogance  did  he  extol  the  superiority 
of  his  tribe  above  all  others,  taunting  his  foes  as 
being  but  a  nation  of  squaws,  fit  only  for  the 
drudgery  of  the  camp.  Faster  and  faster  he 
whirled,  urged  on  by  the  encouraging  cries  of  the 
crowd.  His  blanket  was  thrown  aside,  display- 
ing in  all  its  superb  strength  his  breadth  of  chest 
and  strength  and  suppleness  of  limb.  Louder 
and  yet  more  loud  swelled  his  tones  as  he  boasted 
of  his  own  success  in  the  chase,  of  the  number  of 
scalp  locks  that  he  had  taken,  of  the  terror  among 
his  enemies  that  his  name  inspired.    Defiance 

134 


COURAGE    TESTED 

after  defiance  did  lie  hurl  into  the  very  faces  of 
his  captors.  Suddenly  he  stopped  amid  a  chorus 
of  "  ho !  ho !  ho !  "  uttered  by  the  crowd,  and  fold- 
ing his  arms  across  his  chest,  that  rose  and  fell 
tumultuously  with  feeling  and  exertion,  he  stood 
gazing  haughtily  about  him,  awaiting  the  next 
stage  in  the  proceedings. 

He  had  not  long  to  wait,  for  his  tormentors, 
arming  themselves  with  stout  sticks  or  clubs  and 
knives,  formed  two  parallel  lines  facing  each 
other,  leaving  a  passage  clear  between  them.  He 
was  then  led  to  one  end,  and  at  a  given  signal 
he  darted  down  this  perilous  path  amid  a  chorus 
of  yells.  Blows  rained  down  upon  him,  on  his 
head,  his  shoulders,  breast,  and  back,  wherever 
he  could  be  reached  by  the  clubs  in  the  hands  of 
his  tormentors.  Some,  as  he  passed,  slashed  at 
him  with  their  knives,  leaving  behind  a  spurting 
gash;  others  ran  huge  sharp-pointed  splinters 
into  his  flesh  that  remained  there  like  smarting 
thorns  a  continual  source  of  pain.  Finally,  he 
emerged  at  the  farther  end  of  this  lane  of  torture 
one  mass  of  wounds  and  bruises,  his  skin  drip- 
10  135 


COMRADES    THREE 

ping  with  blood,  but  still  defiant,  proud,  and 
boastful.  He  mocked  them  as  a  race  of  weak- 
lings, who  could  not  cause  a  brave  Iroquois  to 
wince  or  tremble,  and  jeered  at  their  efforts  to 
cause  him  suffering.  Instantly  he  was  sur- 
rounded by  a  maddened  crew  of  shrieking  fiends. 
His  hands  were  seized,  and  one  by  one  the  nails 
were  torn  loose  and  the  finger  bones  broken.  Yet 
through  the  din,  strong  and  passionate,  arose  his 
voice  reviling,  deriding,  sneering.  The  crowd 
separated,  some  running  to  light  the  fires,  others 
seizing  burning  bits  of  bark  which  they  applied 
to  his  quivering  flesh.  The  splinters  still  stick- 
ing in  him  were  lighted  and  burned  brightly  as 
he  once  more  began  his  dance.  Live  coals  and 
hot  stones  were  placed  in  his  path,  over  which  he 
passed  composedly.  A  rush  was  made,  and  he 
was  thrown  upon  the  burning  bush  heap.  He 
was  up  in  an  instant  with  a  mocking  cry,  and 
seizing  in  his  bare  hands  the  flaming  firebrands, 
he  approached  his  enemy,  throwing  them  into 
their  faces.  Again  he  was  seized  and  again 
thrown  into  the  flames.    This  time  he  arises  with 

136 


COURAGE    TESTED 

difficulty,  but  still  the  note  of  defiance  and  hatred 
sounds  in  his  weakened  voice.  Dragged  to  the 
scaffold,  he  is  pinioned  to  a  crossbeam,  while 
blazing  fagots  are  applied  to  his  feet.  A  cal- 
dron of  boiling  water  drenches  him.  He  chokes 
a  moment,  but  soon  regains  his  voice.  Can  the 
force  of  nature  bear  morel  Yes,  for  a  young 
brave  adroitly  scalps  him,  holding  aloft  the 
grewsome  trophy  before  the  screeching  mob. 
Quick  ere  he  die  and  pass  out  of  their  reach  be- 
yond the  realm  of  suffering !  A  burning  brand 
is  passed  into  the  socket  of  each  eye.  He  shud- 
ders with  the  coming  of  the  end.  His  voice  by 
one  superhuman  effort  is  raised  again  for  one 
last  taunt  of  undying  hatred,  and  then  is  silent. 
With  a  quick  stroke  his  breast  is  opened  and  the 
feebly  beating  heart  is  torn  out  and  tossed  to  the 
waiting  throng  below,  where  it  is  quickly  cut  into 
bits  and  swallowed,  still  warm  and  throbbing  with 
the  last  spark  of  life,  by  the  young  men,  that 
they  may  imbibe  some  of  their  victim's  mag- 
nificent courage.  The  head  is  severed,  while 
the  limbs  are  dismembered  and  dropped  into 

137 


COMRADES    THREE 

the  bubbling  kettles  for  the  orgy  of  the  coming 
night. 

During  this  scene  of  savage  cruelty  and  Satanic 
barbarity  Pierre  and  Jean  stood  before  their 
prison  hut,  their  eyes  shocked  by  the  awful  spec- 
tacle, their  ears  ringing  with  the  terrible  din.  At 
length  their  strength  gave  way  and  they  sank  to 
the  ground  sick  and  trembling,  striving  to  cover 
their  heads  and  thus  shut  out  the  sights  and 
sounds  of  the  tragedy  being  enacted  before  them. 

When  the  end  had  come,  new  cries  caused  them 
to  look  up,  and  they  beheld  the  arrival  of  three 
stalwart  braves,  bearing  with  them  a  number  of 
muskets,  powder,  and  a  huge  cask  of  brandy. 
This  latter  was  the  object  of  greatest  attention, 
for  it  was  gleefully  seized  and  put  to  one  side 
under  a  strong  guard  to  await  the  evening. 

During  the  former  excitement  they  were  dimly 
conscious  of  many  interested  looks  being  directed 
toward  them.  Imagine  their  horror  when  they 
beheld  the  same  group  of  men  who  had  first  ap- 
proached the  captive  Iroquois  with  soft  words 
now  advance  toward  them  with  kindly  gestures. 

138 


COURAGE    TESTED 

The  cords  were  removed  and  their  wrists  and 
ankles  rubbed,  while  in  a  mixture  of  French  and 
Algonquin  their  health  was  solicitously  inquired 
after  and  many  assurances  of  friendliness  were 
expressed.  A  quantity  of  food  was  also  brought 
and  the  two  boys  were  led  into  their  hut,  where 
a  repast  was  spread  before  them.  The  savages 
then  withdrew,  leaving  the  two  brothers  to  them- 
selves. They  were  almost  paralyzed  with  horror, 
for  they  recognized  what  all  this  sudden  friend- 
liness and  attention  meant.  The  appetite  of  the 
Indians  for  blood  had  been  but  whetted  by  the  tor- 
ments of  the  first  victim,  and  now  craved  further 
indulgence.  They  were  themselves  destined  for 
the  torture. 


139 


CHAPTER   XI 

IN  WHICH  A  RASH  VENTURE  IS  MADE  THAT  ALMOST 
ENDS   IN   FAILURE 

With  the  full  realization  of  their  terrible  pre- 
dicament came  a  moment  of  despair,  when  all 
their  plans  and  hopes  of  rescue  seemed  doomed 
to  failure.  But  soon  a  reaction  set  in  and  a  firm 
determination  to  outwit  their  enemies,  to  match 
their  own  ingenuity  and  daring  against  the  cun- 
ning of  their  ferocious  foes,  possessed  their 
minds.  Remembering  the  caution  of  Francois 
to  prepare  for  coming  emergencies,  they  filled 
their  pockets  with  food,  bits  of  smoked  meat  and 
maize  cakes,  while  they  ate  as  much  as  they  could 
bear  of  the  malodorous  stew,  that  had  been  given 
them.  All  despair  vanished,  and  their  pulses 
beat  quick  and  strong  with  hopeful  expectancy. 
Perhaps  their  torture  was  reserved  for  the  mor- 
row !  If  so,  provided  the  faithful  FranQois  did 
not  fail  them,  they  would  be  miles  away  ere  dawn. 

140 


A    RASH    VENTURE 

If  the  brandy,  mounting  to  the  savage  brains, 
would  only  induce  forgetfulness  of  the  hapless 
prisoners,  instead  of  stimulating  them  on  to  a 
midnight  orgy  of  pain  and  ferocious  inhumanity ! 

Soon  a  couple  of  Indians  entered  to  remove 
the  remains  of  the  captives'  supper.  They  ut- 
tered friendly  grunts  and  showed  every  apparent 
evidence  of  kindly  feeling.  Before  leaving,  how- 
ever, they  bound  the  boys  again  securely  hand 
and  foot.  This  augured  well  for  their  safety,  as 
the  Indians  would  undoubtedly  have  left  them- 
unbound  if  they  had  had  any  intention  of  making 
them  undergo  the  ordeal  that  night. 

Soon  after  dark  sounds  of  festivity  were 
heard.  Pierre  rolled  his  way  to  the  entrance  and 
beheld  the  open  space  of  the  village  filled  with 
savages.  Some  were  gathered  about  the  boiling 
kettles  into  which  the  dismembered  fragments  of 
the  young  Iroquois  had  been  thrown.  From  the 
shouts  and  laughter  that  arose,  Pierre  judged 
that  they  were  enjoying  their  cannibalistic  re- 
past. At  a  little  distance  from  them  a  still  larger 
group  stood  about  the  newly  arrived  brandy, 

141 


COMRADES    THREE 

which  was  poured  into  huge  gourds  and  passed 
about,  each  drinker  taking  a  copious  draught  of 
the  scalding  stuff  before  handing  it  on  to  his 
neighbor.  Already  had  the  fiery  stimulant  begun 
its  work,  for  every  moment  the  cries  and  shrieks 
from  the  crowd  increased.  Pierre  noticed  that 
no  guard  had  been  placed  in  front  of  the  hut,  the 
savages  evidently  relying  upon  their  helpless 
bound  condition  to  keep  them  captive. 

Well  satisfied  at  the  state  of  affairs,  Pierre  re- 
turned to  Jean  and  related  to  him  his  observa- 
tions. They  then  both  took  up  the  same  position 
they  had  occupied  while  talking  to  FrduQois  the 
previous  night,  and  waited  anxiously  for  the  first 
sound  of  his  arrival. 

Aji  hour  of  suspense  passed.  Then  a  slight 
rapping  on  the  outside  was  heard,  followed  by  a 
familiar  voice. 

"  Take  courage,  mes  amis,  all  goes  well.  Do 
you,  Pierre,  watch  by  the  door,  and  if  you  see 
anyone  approaching  whistle  softly  to  Jean  and 
he  will  warn  me.    Hasten,  for  our  time  is  short." 

Pierre  quickly  did  as  he  was  bid.  FrauQois 
142 


A    RASH    VENTURE 

began  boldly  to  tear  off  the  bark  covering  of  the 
hut  with  a  knife.  He  worked  rapidly  and  with- 
out fear  of  being  heard,  as  the  tumult  of  the  sav- 
ages had  reached  so  high  a  pitch  that  they  would 
have  heard  nothing  short  of  a  rifle  shot.  When 
the  bark  was  removed  from  a  sufficient  space, 
Frangois  attacked  the  upright  saplings  that 
formed  the  inner  wall,  quickly  cutting  and  tear- 
ing until  he  had  made  a  hole  close  to  the  ground 
large  enough  for  him  to  squeeze  through  into  the 
interior.  A  moment  later  and  he  had  severed  the 
bonds  of  the  prisoners.  With  silent  joy  the  three 
boys  embraced  each  other  again  and  again. 
Frangois,  however,  warned  the  other  two  that  no 
time  was  to  be  lost,  and  helped  them  through  the 
opening  he  had  made.  They  found  themselves 
in  the  shadow  of  their  prison,  which  mingled  its 
shade  a  few  paces  back  with  that  of  the  forest. 
As  they  passed  the  adjoining  hut  Jean  stopped 
them.  Again  that  cry  of  agony,  of  weakness,  of 
death  itself,  came  to  their  ears  despite  the  shouts 
of  the  drunken  savages.  Again  were  heard  the 
muttered  French  words  that  now  and  then  merged 

143 


COMRADES    THREE 

into  the  articulate  cry,  "  Au  secours!  "  This  cry 
for  help  touched  the  deepest  chords  of  sympathy 
in  the  boys'  natures.  In  a  few  hurried  words 
Pierre  told  FrauQois  of  their  neighbor's  heart- 
rending cries  and  moaning  of  the  night  before. 
FrauQois  was  deeply  moved.  "Would  that  we 
could  offer  him  some  help,"  he  murmured. 

"  We  can,"  suggested  Pierre. 

"How?" 

"  By  rescuing  him  the  same  as  you  have  res- 
cued us,  and  taking  him  with  us." 

"  Mon  Dieu!  and  make  our  own  capture  certain 
by  the  delay?    Impossible!  " 

"  Will  not  the  brandy  keep  the  Indians  occu- 
pied and  give  us  plenty  of  time  ? "  persisted 
Pierre. 

"  Perhaps.  But  at  any  moment  their  inflamed 
minds  may  suggest  to  them  the  idea  of  seeking 
you  out  to  add  to  the  pleasure  of  their  feast. 
We  need  every  moment  we  can  get  before  they 
discover  your  escape.  It  would  be  folly  to  at- 
tempt it." 

Pierre  wavered  at  these  words,  the  good  sense 
144 


A    RASH    VENTURE 

of  which  he  readily  appreciated.  He  was  there- 
fore about  to  give  his  reluctant  consent  to  their 
instant  departure  when  Jean  spoke  boldly: 

"  Folly  or  no  folly,  I  shall  never  stir  from  this 
spot  until  we  make  the  attempt.  You  two  can  go 
on  if  you  will,  leaving  me  the  knife,  but  I  shall 
remain  and  do  my  best  alone.  I  can  but  fail  and 
be  recaptured.  But  I  would  rather  endure  all  the 
torture  those  drunken  fiends  can  devise  than  es- 
cape and  forever  after  be  haunted  by  the  groans 
of  the  helpless  white  prisoner  whom  I  might  have 
saved  but  whom  I  did  not  even  try  to  aid." 

Like  the  striking  of  steel  against  the  flint  did 
these  noble  words  ring  in  the  ears  of  his  com- 
panions, causing  the  spark  of  self-sacrifice  and 
gallant  resolve  to  flash  in  their  hearts.  Each  im- 
pulsively grasped  one  of  his  hands  and  silently 
pressed  it.  All  three  with  one  accord  then  turned 
their  attention  to  their  hazardous  plan  of  rescu- 
ing the  strange  prisoner. 

They  discovered  that  the  hut  was  a  very  old 
affair,  the  bark  covering  having  been  worn  off  by 
the  force  of  the  wind  and  rain,  leaving  the  inner 

145 


COMRADES    THREE 

sapling  wall  bare.  This,  too,  had  rotted  from 
long  exposure,  so  that  the  branches  could  be 
pulled  apart  sufficiently  to  make  an  aperture 
wide  enough  for  a  man  to  slip  through.  This 
necessitated  scarcely  any  cutting.  The  boys  were 
delighted  at  the  discovery,  and  quickly  pressed 
their  way  inside. 

They  found  themselves  in  a  hut  considerably 
smaller  than  that  in  which  Pierre  and  Jean  had 
been  confined,  ill-smelling  and  dark.  Guided  by 
the  sounds  uttered  by  the  prisoner,  they  groped 
their  way  about  until  they  found  him  lying  on  a 
heap  of  leaves.  He  was  unconscious  of  their  ap- 
proach, but  continued  to  rave  and  mutter  in  a 
weak  voice,  the  only  intelligible  words  being 
those  that  they  had  heard  before,  "  Au  secours!  " 
which  he  repeated  over  and  over.  Frangois,  in 
feeling  of  his  hand,  was  horrified  at  the  discov- 
ery that  it  was  literally  nothing  but  skin  and 
bone.  He  found  that  his  arms  and  legs  were  in  a 
similar  condition.  Evidently  the  Indians  had 
abandoned  their  prisoner  to  a  lingering  death  by 
starvation,  and  had  almost  succeeded  in  their 

146 


A    RASH    VENTURE 

fiendish  desires.  Drawing  a  hunter's  flask  con- 
taining water  from  his  pocket,  he  applied  it  to 
the  parched  lips  that  eagerly  partook  of  the  life- 
giving  fluid  with  a  weak  sigh  of  satisfaction.  He 
then  produced  another  containing  brandy,  a  little 
of  which  he  allowed  to  trickle  down  the  sick 
man's  throat.  After  a  few  moments  the  moans 
ceased.  He  then  moistened  a  cake  of  maize  that 
Jean  handed  him  with  the  brandy,  and  carefully 
fed  it  to  the  unfortunate.  By  this  time  he  was 
able  to  swallow,  and  ate  the  food  offered  him 
with  a  ravenous  snarl  more  like  that  of  a  starving 
dog  than  a  human  being. 

All  of  this  procedure  consumed  considerable 
time.  They  had  begun  to  prepare  for  their  de- 
parture when  they  were  all  struck  dumb  with  ter- 
ror at  a  new  danger  which  threatened  them.  The 
orgy  of  the  savages  had  reached  a  point  where 
some  evil  spirit  had  evidently  reminded  them  of 
their  two  prisoners,  for  with  a  wild  yell  the  whole 
company  made  a  rush  to  the  hut  in  which  they 
had  left  them.  The  escape  of  the  boys  was  now 
impossible.    Their  flight  would  be  immediately 

147 


COMRADES    THREE 

discovered !  They  heard  the  footsteps  of  the  mad- 
dened mob  as  it  passed  and  surged  about  the  en- 
trance of  their  former  prison.  A  partial  silence 
ensued  as  several  of  the  braves  entered  to  drag 
forth  the  captives  for  the  sport  of  the  crowd.  An 
instant  later  a  yell  of  rage  announced  the  dis- 
covery of  the  empty  hut.  With  wild  shouts  and 
execrations  they  crowded  in.  One  lighted  a  torch, 
whose  glare  quickly  showed  the  hole  in  the  wall 
through  which  the  prisoners  had  passed.  With 
more  yells  they  rushed  out  and  around  to  the 
back.  Luckily  for  the  boys  the  ground  around 
the  huts  was  hard,  so  that  they  had  left  no  trail 
behind. 

FranQois  held  his  breath  and  listened  eagerly. 
If  their  foes  determined  not  to  pursue  them,  they 
were  lost,  for  some  one  would  undoubtedly  think 
of  the  starving  prisoner,  and  would  enter  to  see 
if  he,  too,  had  escaped.  The  drunken  crowd 
seemed  to  hesitate  a  moment.  Then  under  the 
leadership  of  one  of  the  braves  who  bore  a  torch, 
they  made  a  dash  for  the  forest  in  a  body  in 
eager  chase  of  the  captives  who,  they  knew,  could 

148 


A    RASH    VENTURE 

not  be  far  away.  Gradually  they  separated,  go- 
ing over  the  ground  slowly,  each  party  lighting  a 
new  pine  stick  as  they  left  the  rest. 

Frangois  breathed  freely  once  more.  Going  to 
the  door  of  the  hut  he  peered  forth.  By  the  light 
of  the  fires  he  saw  that  the  village  was  deserted 
save  by  the  squaws  and  children  who  still  hung 
about  the  loathsome  kettles.  He  then  cautiously 
separated  the  saplings  through  which  they  had 
entered  and  listened.  Not  a  sound  was  heard 
from  the  direction  of  the  forest  save  the  distant 
shouts  of  the  pursuing  party.  He  then  returned 
to  his  companions. 

"  Quick !  "  he  said.  "  This  is  our  only  chance !  " 
and  seizing  the  unfortunate  prisoner  he  dragged 
him  to  the  opening.  Jean  and  Pierre  held  the 
branches  aside  while  Frangois  hauled  the  sick 
man  through.  They  then  quickly  followed. 
Frangois  stooped,  and  drawing  their  helpless 
friend  on  his  back,  started  off,  the  others  com- 
ing close  on  his  heels.  He  pursued  the  track  of 
the  savages  a  short  distance  into  the  forest,  then, 
turning  sharply  to  the  right,  he  made  his  way 

149 


COMRADES    THREE 

cautiously  around  the  village  until  he  came  to  a 
point  directly  opposite  to  that  from  which  he  had 
started,  then  plunged  into  the  gloom  and  shadow 
of  the  woods  again,  stopping  every  now  and  then 
to  listen  for  any  sounds  of  the  returning  savages. 
Over  fallen  trees  they  scrambled,  through  bushes 
and  vines  they  plunged,  now  down  into  the  bed 
of  a  brook,  now  up  the  opposite  bank.  At  length, 
after  an  hour  or  more  of  this  exhausting  work, 
they  stopped  for  rest.  Francois  laid  his  burden 
upon  the  soft  pine  needles  and  gave  him  more 
strengthening  food  and  liquid.  The  two  brothers, 
breathless  with  fatigue,  threw  themselves  pant- 
ing upon  the  ground.  Looking  up  through  the 
tree  tops,  they  could  see  the  stars  beginning  to 
pale  before  the  early  streaks  of  dawn.  Erelong 
the  forest  lost  its  gloom  and  a  faint  shadowy 
gray  suffused  itself  among  the  trees.  When  it 
was  light  enough  for  them  to  see  their  way,  Fran- 
cois ordered  the  march  to  begin  again.  Once 
more  did  he  place  the  burden  upon  his  stalwart 
shoulders,  and  they  advanced  rapidly,  fear  lend- 
ing strength  to  their  wearied  limbs. 

150 


A    RASH    VENTURE 

Suddenly  he  stopped  with  a  gesture  of  silence. 
They  all  listened  carefully.  Far  ahead  the  sound 
of  distant  shouts  was  heard.  They  turned  to  the 
left  only  to  discern  the  sound  of  approaching 
savages  in  that  direction ;  quick  to  the  right  they 
darted,  but  there,  too,  quavered  the  far-off  an- 
swering cry  of  a  returning  party.  They  were 
surrounded  by  their  enemies,  who  were  evidently 
beating  the  woods  carefully  on  their  way  back  to 
the  village.  To  retrace  their  footsteps  meant  cer- 
tain capture.  Instinctively  they  halted.  Fran- 
cois glanced  about  them  with  a  desperate  look. 
Not  a  moment  could  be  lost.  If  anything  was  to 
be  done,  it  must  be  done  at  once.  With  a  muffled 
cry  he  sprang  forward  again.  Before  them  stood 
the  remains  of  a  forest  giant.  A  king  among 
trees  had  it  been  at  one  time,  but  its  proud  head 
blasted  by  the  lightning,  its  trunk  eaten  by  hid- 
den insects,  it  now  stood  a  melancholy  ruin,  yet 
withal  possessing  still  a  regal  air. 

The  keen  eye  of  Frangois  had  spied  next  to 
the  ground  a  hole  leading  into  its  hollow  trunk. 
This  was  their  haven  of  refuge.  Should  they 
11  151 


COMRADES    THREE 

reach  that  in  time  and  without  leaving  any  trace 
of  their  entrance,  they  might  yet  be  saved. 

Quickly  they  stooped  and  scrambled  into  the 
gloomy  interior  of  the  huge  trunk,  which  they 
found  commodious  enough  for  a  dozen  fugitives. 
Hastily  retreating  to  the  farthest  side  they  lay 
down,  covering  themselves  with  the  large  quan- 
tity of  leaves  they  found  there,  and  waited  the 
approach  of  their  enemies  with  trembling  hearts. 
Nearer  and  nearer  came  the  shouts  from  three 
directions,  until  they  knew  that  the  savages  must 
be  but  a  few  hundred  yards  distant. 

At  that  moment  a  new  danger  presented  itself. 
A  low  growl  was  heard,  and  a  scratching  as  of 
sharp  claws  upon  the  ground;  the  dim  light  of 
the  doorway  vanished  as  a  huge  bear  squeezed 
itself  into  the  refuge  the  boys  had  chosen  for 
themselves. 


152 


CHAPTER   XII 

WHEREIN    A    DANGER    IS    ESCAPED    AND    SOME    PER- 
PLEXITIES  ARE   SOLVED 

Francois  understood  the  situation  at  once. 
The  hollow  tree  was  undoubtedly  the  animal's 
lair,  to  which  he  had  naturally  fled  when  dis- 
turbed in  his  nightly  prowl  by  the  approaching 
Indians.  Hence  it  was  that  the  fugitives  were  the 
real  intruders. 

It  was  a  serious  enough  state  of  affairs  to  find 
the  woods  round  about  them  infested  with  their 
savage  enemies,  but  in  addition  to  have  to  deal 
at  close  quarters  in  the  dark  with  this  already 
infuriated  beast  with  no  other  weapon  than  a 
hunting  knife  was  a  condition  that  even  the 
bravest  of  men  could  not  face  without  dread. 

The  boys,  however,  realized  that  nothing  could 
be  gained  by  dwelling  in  thought  upon  the  danger 
of  their  situation,  and  resolved  to  meet  their 

153 


COMRADES    THREE 

perils  as  best  they  could.  Their  first  effort  was 
to  avoid  discovery  by  the  bear.  All  would  cer- 
tainly be  lost  if,  while  the  Indians  were  near  at 
hand,  the  impending  conflict  with  the  huge  ani- 
mal was  precipitated.  Accordingly,  they  re- 
mained motionless  among  the  leaves,  scarcely 
breathing.  Frangois  held  his  hand  ready  to 
smother  any  mutterings  from  their  wretched 
companion,  who  luckily  had  fallen  into  an  easy 
sleep.  The  bear  did  not  prowl  around  the  inte- 
rior of  the  hollow  tree,  but  watched  and  listened 
just  inside  the  entrance,  as  though  waiting  for 
an  attack  from  without.  In  a  few  moments  the 
sound  of  voices  and  the  crackling  of  broken  twigs 
announced  the  arrival  of  a  party  of  their  foes  in 
the  open  space  about  their  hiding  place.  These 
halted  as  though  to  rest.  Francois's  heart  sank. 
He  had  hoped  that  they  would  pass  on  without 
stopping.  Every  moment  that  they  lingered  in- 
creased the  danger  of  the  boys'  discovery. 

Presently  a  second  party  arrived  from  another 
direction,  and  in  a  few  moments  later  a  third 
came  up.     The  fugitives  had  unluckily  chosen 

154 


DANGER   AND    PERPLEXITY 

for  their  shelter  the  very  spot  selected  as  a  meet- 
ing place  by  the  various  bands  of  their  pursuing 
enemies.  Francois  was  able,  through  his  knowl- 
edge of  the  Indian  tongue,  to  understand  a  good 
deal  of  their  conversation.  He  thus  learned  that 
they  were  on  their  way  back  to  the  village,  and 
had  given  up  all  hope  of  finding  the  escaped  pris- 
oners, attributing  their  success  in  eluding  them 
to  the  action  of  some  one  of  the  various  evil  spir- 
its in  whom  the  Indians  firmly  believed.  At  last 
the  signal  was  given  to  start,  and  Frangois's  anx- 
iety was  somewhat  relieved.  Imagine  his  horror 
when  he  heard  one  of  the  tribe  whose  brain  was 
less  befuddled  with  brandy  than  the  rest  mention 
the  hollow  tree  before  them  as  a  possible  place  of 
concealment.  This  suggestion  was  hailed  with  a 
shout  of  approval.  Several  of  the  braves  ap- 
proached the  entrance.  One  of  them  peered  in, 
then  getting  down  on  all  fours  proceeded  to  en- 
ter, with  the  evident  purpose  of  exploring  the 
interior.  He  had  advanced  only  halfway  when 
the  bear,  who  had  been  lying  in  wait  for  any  in- 
truder, brought  his  heavy  paw  down  on  the  mid- 
155 


COMRADES    THREE 

die  of  his  back  with  great  force,  tearing  the  flesh 
severely  with  his  sharp  long  claws.  With  a 
scream  of  pain  the  Indian  disappeared,  only  to  be 
greeted  by  a  roar  of  derision  from  his  com- 
rades, to  which  sound  the  bear  growled  a  gruff 
reply. 

A  moment  later  another  Indian  approached, 
and,  after  scratching  on  the  ground  to  excite  the 
attention  of  the  bear,  inserted  the  end  of  his  mus- 
ket inside  the  entrance.  This  action  infuriated 
the  animal  the  more,  and  he  seized  the  muzzle 
between  his  teeth,  endeavoring  to  crush  it  by  the 
force  of  his  powerful  jaws.  This  was  what  the 
Indian  wished,  so  he  quickly  pulled  the  trigger, 
sending  the  bullet  through  the  bear's  brain,  who 
fell  heavily  forward  dead.  Two  Indians,  reach- 
ing inside,  then  seized  each  a  paw  and  pulled  the 
carcass  through  the  hole  in  the  tree  and  stretched 
it  full  length  upon  the  ground.  Knives  were 
quickly  used,  and  in  a  few  moments  the  skin  had 
been  removed  and  the  choicest  parts  of  the  meat 
cut  off.  The  entire  party  then  quietly  took  their 
departure  without  further  investigation  of  the 

156 


DANGER    AND    PERPLEXITY 

hollow  tree,  taking  it  for  granted  from  the  pres- 
ence of  the  bear  that  the  captives  they  were  in 
search  of  were  not  there. 

A  full  half -hour  elapsed  in  silence  before  Fran- 
cois stole  forth  to  reconnoiter.  When  he  finally 
did  so,  he  found  the  place  deserted.  Calling  to 
Pierre  and  Jean  to  come  out,  he  busied  himself 
in  cutting  off  strips  of  bear  meat  that  had  been 
left  by  the  savages.  He  ordered  them  to  collect 
a  small  heap  of  leaves  from  the  interior  of  the 
tree,  while  he  drove  two  stakes  into  the  ground 
with  forked  tops.  A  crosspiece  was  then  laid 
upon  them,  and  the  strips  of  meat  hung  on  it. 
Finding  the  right  sort  of  dried  wood,  he  began 
rubbing  the  surfaces  of  two  sticks  together  in 
Indian  fashion,  until  a  smoldering  flame  was  pro- 
cured. This,  when  applied  to  the  dried  leaves 
placed  beneath  the  strips  of  meat,  soon  made  a 
fire  which  he  carefully  fed  with  selected  twigs. 
He  did  this  boldly,  knowing  from  the  words  of 
their  foes  overheard  that  there  were  no  other 
parties  to  follow.  Not  until  all  this  was  accom- 
plished did  he  speak  again. 

157 


COMRADES    THREE 

"A  narrow  escape,  mes  amis,  was  it  not?" 
he  exclaimed. 

"  I  thought  our  end  had  come  when  I  saw  the 
bear  enter,"  Pierre  replied. 

"  I  did  not  fear  the  bear  so  much,"  added  Jean 
retrospectively,  "because  you  will  remember  I 
killed  one  larger  than  he.  It  was  when  I  saw  the 
Indian's  head  appear  crawling  stealthily  in  that 
everything  grew  black  before  my  eyes,  and  I 
nearly  fainted." 

"  We  must  forget  past  dangers,"  continued 
Frangois,  "  and  devote  our  energies  to  present 
affairs  and  provide  for  future  perils.  One  of 
them,  lack  of  food,  I  am  already  trying  to  take 
measures  to  avoid  by  preparing  this  smoked  bear 
meat.  Ah !  Monsieur  Bear,"  he  exclaimed  laugh- 
ingly, as  he  doffed  his  cap  and  bowed  to  the  re- 
mains of  the  animal  on  the  ground,  "  we  indeed 
owe  you  much.  Living,  you  guarded  us  against 
our  enemies;  dead,  you  provide  us  with  suste- 
nance for  our  journey.  But  come,  to  work,  all 
of  us.  Do  you,  Jean,  fill  this  water  flask  from 
the  brook  we  hear  off  there  to  the  left,  while 

158 


DANGER    AND    PERPLEXITY 

Pierre  can  aid  me  in  bringing  our  unfortunate 
friend  out  where  he  can  have  fresh  air  and  day- 
light to  aid  in  his  recovery." 

Carefully  the  man  was  partly  carried,  partly 
dragged  from  their  retreat  and  laid  down  beside 
the  fire.  All  three  boys  started  back  in  surprise 
on  thus  beholding  him  for  the  first  time.  He  was 
a  Frenchman  of  medium  height,  whose  age  might 
have  been  anywhere  between  forty  and  fifty. 
His  hair,  streaked  with  gray,  was  long  and 
matted,  while  a  beard,  tangled  and  dirty,  covered 
his  face.  The  skin  was  drawn  tightly  over  the 
bones,  which  threatened  every  moment  to  burst 
through  this  thin  covering.  The  eyes  were 
sunken  deep  within  their  sockets,  and  glowed 
with  the  brilliancy  of  severe  illness,  yet  lacked 
the  look  of  human  understanding  as  they  moved 
restlessly  from  one  object  to  another.  His 
clothes  consisted  of  a  few  ragged  garments 
that  only  partially  covered  the  emaciated  form. 
Wherever  the  skin  showed,  terrible  looking  scars 
were  visible,  while  the  hands  were  knotted  and 
twisted,  without  finger  nails  and  with  one  thumb 

159 


COMRADES    THREE 

missing — all  mute  witnesses  of  the  terrible  tor- 
ture he  had  been  through. 

The  three  boys  turned  away  for  a  moment, 
sickened  at  the  horrible  sight,  but  soon  a  sym- 
pathetic pity  arose  that  overcame  all  other  feel- 
ings. After  giving  him  a  copious  drink  of  the 
fresh,  cool  water,  he  was  allowed  to  eat  sparingly 
of  the  food  Pierre  and  Jean  had  brought  with 
them,  they  themselves  partaking  of  the  tougher 
bear  meat.  After  his  hunger  had  been  in  a  meas- 
ure abated,  the  man  sank  into  an  unconscious 
state,  half-sleep,  half-stupor.  The  boys  took 
turns  at  watching  while  the  others  slept.  At 
length  all  awoke  near  sundown  greatly  refreshed. 
The  fire,  which  had  died  out,  was  not  relighted  for 
fear  of  detection  during  the  night.  The  entire 
party  then  retired  to  the  hollow  tree,  the  sick 
man  to  sink  into  a  healthy  invigorating  sleep,  the 
others  to  talk  over  their  future  plans. 

"  And  now,"  said  Pierre,  when  they  were  all 
comfortably  settled,  "  tell  us  what  happened  after 
your  escape  from  the  Indians  in  the  canoe." 

"  Yes,"  chimed  in  Jean,  "  I  am  dying  to  know 
160 


DANGER    AND    PERPLEXITY 

how  you  managed  to  follow  us  without  dis- 
covery." 

"  Well,  to  begin  with,"  began  Francois,  "  when 
I  was  sent  to  the  river  and  saw  the  empty  canoes, 
the  idea  of  escape  naturally  suggested  itself  to 
my  mind.  I  just  made  a  hole  in  the  big  canoe 
so  they  could  not  follow  me,  and  made  off  through 
the  darkness  in  the  smaller  one.  A  half  league 
up  the  river  I  hid  the  canoe  with  the  gun,  am- 
munition, and  other  things  that  it  contained, 
marking  the  place  carefully  so  we  can  get  it 
again  on  our  return.  I  took  a  hunting  knife,  two 
flasks  of  brandy,  and  some  dried  meat  with  me.  I 
then  returned  by  a  roundabout  way  to  the  vicinity 
of  the  camp  and  climbed  a  tall  tree  at  dawn,  from 
which  I  was  able  to  determine  the  direction  taken 
by  you  and  your  captors.  I  easily  followed  your 
trail  by  day,  hiding  myself  against  surprise  at 
night." 

"To  think,"  cried  Jean,  "that* all  the  time 
when  we  felt  so  alone  you  were  only  a  short  dis- 
tance off ! " 

"  As  soon  as  you  reached  the  Indian  village," 
16X 


COMRADES    THREE 

continued  Francois,  "  I  hastened  to  the  top  of  a 
pine  tree  a  short  distance  off  that  overlooks  the 
entire  settlement,  and  at  night  began  signaling 
to  you.  I  could  not  tell  whether  you  had  heard 
my  signals  or  not,  until  I  saw  you  standing  out- 
side your  hut  the  next  morning.  I  prowled  about 
the  edge  of  the  camp  during  the  evening  and 
picked  up  considerable  information." 

"  Did  you  learn  any  reason  for  our  capture?  " 
inquired  Pierre  eagerly. 

"Yes.  I  was  able  in  the  darkness  to  creep 
near  one  of  the  larger  houses  where  the  chief 
men  of  the  village  were  talking.  I  learned  that 
the  leader  of  this  portion  of  the  tribe  is  none 
other  than  the  infamous  half-breed  who  has 
caused  the  Governor  so  much  trouble.  He  is 
called  *  The  Rat '  by  the  French  from  the  way  he 
has  of  slipping  into  some  hole  and  escaping  when 
his  enemies  have  him  surrounded  and  believe  his 
capture  certain.  He  it  was  whom  one  of  you  sur- 
prised in  the  middle  of  the  night  at  your  uncle's 
house.  It  seems  that  your  uncle  for  some  reason 
wanted  you  out  of  the  way.    He  learned  of  the 

162 


DANGER    AND    PERPLEXITY 

existence  of  our  cave  by  setting  his  negro  servant 
Bolo  to  watch  you.  Every  time  you  slipped  out 
by  means  of  your  rope  ladder,  he  followed  you 
and  reported  your  actions.  Your  uncle  made  a 
bargain  with  some  friends  of  *  The  Rat '  to  carry 
4  you  off,  paying  them  in  guns,  ammunition,  and 
brandy  for  their  trouble.  The  brandy  that  the 
Indians  were  drinking  last  night  was  part  of  the 
price  paid  for  getting  rid  of  you.  I  suppose, 
finding  me  in  the  cave  with  you,  they  determined 
to  take  me  also  for  fear  I  might  tell  of  your  cap- 
ture. He  stipulated  that  no  harm  should  happen 
to  you  while  on  the  way.  He  even  suggested  that 
they  adopt  you  into  their  tribe  and  bring  you  up 
as  Indians,  threatening  you  with  death  by  torture 
if  you  ever  deserted  them." 

A  prolonged  sigh  of  astonishment  at  thus 
learning  of  their  uncle's  baseness  issued  from 
the  lips  of  the  two  brothers. 

"  But  why  did  he  hate  us  so  ?  "  queried  Pierre. 
"  Why  did  he  not  simply  turn  us  adrift  in 
Quebec? " 

"  He  fears  you  have  discovered  some  of  his 
163 


COMRADES    THREE 

secrets,  and  is  afraid  of  your  divulging  them,  no 
doubt,  hence  his  desire  to  have  you  lost  in  the 
wilderness." 

Instantly  through  the  brothers'  minds  there 
flashed  the  memory  of  the  midnight  visitor,  the 
signal  lights,  and  all  the  mysterious  sounds  they 
had  heard  about  the  house,  and  they  compre- 
hended clearly  their  meaning. 

"  I  was  puzzled,"  continued  Francois,  "  when 
the  leader  asked  one  of  the  chiefs  about  '  The 
Frenchman,'  as  he  called  him.  The  answer  was 
that  he  was  gradually  growing  weaker,  that  the 
food  had  been  reduced  each  day,  until  nothing 
but  a  little  water  was  now  being  given.  When 
you  told  me  about  the  sounds  of  suffering  issuing 
from  the  neighboring  hut,  I  understood.  I  also 
learned  that  an  Iroquois  prisoner  was  expected 
to  arrive  the  next  day,  and  that  he  would  be  at 
once  tortured.  Your  case  then  came  up  for  dis- 
cussion. Several  urged  that  you  be  adopted  into 
the  tribe,  but  the  prevailing  sentiment  was  for 
your  death  by  torture,  so  it  was  decided  to  hold 
you  over  until  the  day  after  the  Iroquois  was 

164 


DANGER    AND    PERPLEXITY 

killed,  so  tliat  they  could  prolong  their  cruel 
sport.  The  brandy  evidently  made  them  change 
their  minds  and  decide  to  have  all  their  pleasure 
at  once.  Now,  no  more  questions,  but  all  try  to 
get  some  rest.  There  is  no  knowing  how  soon  we 
can  sleep  all  night  again." 


165 


CHAPTER   XIII 

BEGINS  WITH  A  FRIGHT  FOR  JEAN  AND  ENDS  WITH 
A   NOVEL   JOURNEY 

At  daybreak  the  entire  party  was  astir.  The 
sick  man  seemed  greatly  strengthened,  and  even 
attempted  to  hobble  weakly  about.  His  mind, 
however,  was  far  from  clear.  Although  at  times 
apparently  understanding  in  a  measure  what  was 
said  to  him,  he  was  unable  to  reply  save  by  unin- 
telligible mutterings.  He  often  watched  his  com- 
panions with  a  look  of  curiosity  and  helpless  anx- 
iety that  betrayed  the  struggle  his  reason  was 
making  to  regain  control  of  the  physical  system 
so  grievously  shattered  by  torture  and  starva- 
tion. After  a  hearty  meal  of  fresh  bear  meat, 
hurriedly  cooked  over  a  tiny  fire,  they  destroyed 
all  evidences  of  their  sojourn,  and  started  off 
slowly,  their  unfortunate  friend  being  carried  in 
a  sort  of  chair  formed  by  the  sturdy  arms  of 
Pierre  and  Frangois. 

166 


A    FRIGHT    AND    A    JOURNEY 

"We  shall  go  directly  north,"  explained  the 
latter,  "  although  every  step  in  that  direction  is 
taking  us  farther  from  Quebec.  The  savages  will 
count  on  our  going  toward  the  south,  and  will  un- 
doubtedly keep  a  sharp  lookout  for  us  during  the 
next  few  days.  We  shall  probably  soon  come  to 
a  small  stream  which  we  can  follow  to  the  river." 

Proceeding  thus,  with  frequent  delays  for  rest, 
the  small  party  made  its  way  through  the  forest, 
silent  as  regards  all  human  sounds,  but  echoing 
with  the  animate  voices  of  nature.  Cries  of  birds 
flying  from  branch  to  branch  overhead  were 
mingled  with  the  chatter  of  squirrels  or  the  near- 
by crashing  among  the  undergrowth  of  some  wild 
animal  startled  from  its  seclusion  by  their  ap- 
proach. They  slept  that  night  at  the  foot  of  a 
giant  tree,  and  never  did  weary  limbs  sink  to  rest 
on  a  soft  bed  more  gratefully  than  did  theirs  on 
the  yielding  carpet  of  pine  needles  covering  the 
ground.  The  next  day  was  a  repetition  of  the 
day  before.  Late  in  the  afternoon  they  came  to 
a  large  brook  that  splashed  fussily  over  its  stones 
in  its  haste  to  meet  the  larger  river  a  few  leagues 
13  167 


COMRADES    THREE 

away.  Beside  this  stream  they  spent  the  night, 
starting  next  morning  to  follow  its  course,  keep- 
ing a  short  distance  from  its  bank. 

They  had  proceeded  thus  far  without  mishap 
or  adventure,  when  shortly  after  noon  there  oc- 
curred an  event  that  well-nigh  put  an  end  to 
Jean's  further  journeying.  Frangois  and  Pierre 
with  their  human  load  were  leading,  while  Jean 
followed  a  short  distance  behind.  They  had  just 
entered  a  small  open  space  among  the  trees  when 
Francois  suddenly  stopped.  His  practiced  ear 
had  caught  a  sound  foreign  to  the  usual  noise  of 
the  forest.  Signaling  caution  to  the  others,  he 
listened  silently  for  a  moment. 

"Indians ! "  he  whispered  warningly.  "Hide ! " 
At  the  word  he  directed  Pierre  with  a  motion  of 
the  head  toward  the  underbrush  at  the  left,  and 
together  they  noiselessly  bore  their  helpless  com- 
rade to  a  place  of  safety.  Jean,  who  found  him- 
self nearer  the  right  edge  of  the  open  glade  which 
they  had  entered,  sprang  in  that  direction  and 
hid  himself  behind  a  rotting  log  in  front  of  the 
base  of  a  stately  pine.    A  wild  vine  had  attached 

168 


A    FRIGHT    AND    A    JOURNEY 

itself  to  the  surface  of  this  log,  covering  it  and 
the  ground  behind  it  with  a  profusion  of  leafy 
growth.  Beneath  its  protecting  cover  he  wriggled 
and  lay  close  against  the  log,  apparently  per- 
fectly concealed,  while  he  was  able  to  look  out  in 
safety  through  an  opening  between  the  leaves. 

Several  moments  passed  without  any  appear- 
ance of  the  enemy,  and  Jean  began  to  think  that 
FranQois  had  been  unduly  alarmed,  when  he  be- 
held at  the  farther  end  of  the  open  space  the  forms 
of  five  savages  emerging  from  the  woods.  On 
they  came  at  a  dogtrot  in  single  file  making  their 
way  noiselessly  save  for  the  occasional  breaking 
of  a  twig  under  foot.  It  was  evidently  a  hunting 
party,  for  the  first  four  carried  guns  ready  to 
hand  for  instant  use  should  the  alert  glances 
which  they  cast  from  side  to  side  reveal  the  sight 
of  the  desired  game.  The  fifth,  who  lagged  some- 
what behind  the  others,  carried  no  firearm,  but 
bore  on  his  shoulders  the  carcass  of  a  young  deer. 
Swiftly  the  silent  company  approached,  passing 
within  a  dozen  feet  of  Jean's  hiding  place.  The 
leader  had  already  plunged  into  the  forest  with 

169 


COMRADES    THREE 

his  three  companions.  Jean  had  just  begun  to 
breathe  a  sigh  of  relief  when  he  was  horrified 
at  beholding  the  last  one  of  the  party  suddenly 
stop  directly  in  front  of  him  with  his  intent  gaze 
directed  on  the  very  spot  where  his  own  eyes 
were  peering  forth.  His  heart  gave  a  quick 
bound  as  he  believed  himself  to  be  discovered. 
The  Indian  stood  motionless  and  tense  for  an 
instant,  then  he  quickly  slipped  the  deer  to  the 
ground,  snatched  his  hatchet  from  his  belt,  and 
raised  it  high  in  air.  A  wild  fear  seized  Jean 
as  he  watched  with  fascinated  gaze  the  move- 
ments of  the  threatening  weapon.  An  instant 
later  it  left  the  upraised  hand  and  came  hurtling 
through  the  air  toward  him.  He  involuntarily 
closed  his  eyes,  and  with  difficulty  repressed  a  cry 
of  terror.  He  heard  the  weapon  strike  the  tree 
above  and  behind  him.  The  redskin  had  missed 
his  aim !  He  opened  his  eyes.  The  savage  was 
running  toward  him.  He  jumped  lightly  over 
the  log.  A  second  later  he  had  leaped  back  hold- 
ing in  one  hand  the  glittering  hatchet,  in  the 
other  a  dead  squirrel,  which  he  had  spied  upon 

170 


A    FRIGHT   AND    A    JOURNEY 

the  tree  directly  over  Jean's  head,  and  which 
he  had  killed  with  a  clever  stroke.  Returning  the 
weapon  to  his  belt  he  picked  up  the  deer  once 
more  and  disappeared  after  his  companions,  with 
the  new  trophy  of  his  skill  dangling  from  his 
hand. 

Fully  fifteen  minutes  passed  before  any  of  the 
fugitives  stirred.  Then  FranQois's  head  was  cau- 
tiously protruded  from  its  hiding  place,  and  he 
looked  and  listened  for  a  moment  to  make  sure 
that  there  were  no  other  savages  following  the 
hunting  party.  Presently  all  emerged  and  stood 
together  in  the  glade.  Jean  related  his  harrow- 
ing experience.  Frangois  smiled  sympathetic- 
ally as  he  pointed  out  the  spot  where  he  had 
lain. 

"  I  do  not  wonder  you  were  the  least  bit  fright- 
ened. From  your  position  you  could  not  know 
what  was  going  on  behind  you,  and  did  not  see 
the  squirrel  on  the  tree  trunk.  But  come,  we 
must  not  delay.  There  may  be  other  bands  of 
redskins  roving  in  this  neighborhood.  I  shall  not 
be  easy  until  we  reach  the  river." 

171 


COMRADES    THREE 

That  night  they  encamped  upon  the  bank  of 
the  Ottawa.  When  the  brothers  awoke  it  was 
broad  daylight,  and  they  found  themselves  alone 
with  their  unfortunate  companion.  Frangois  had 
disappeared.  Some  time  elapsed,  and  they  were 
beginning  to  be  a  little  anxious  over  his  absence 
when  they  heard  some  one  approaching.  It  was 
he,  carrying  a  capful  of  berries,  and  with  a  cheer- 
ful, eager  look  upon  his  face  that  told  of  a  happy 
discovery. 

"  Here !  "  he  cried,  "  try  these  as  a  change  for 
breakfast.  I  thought  I  would  let  you  sleep  while 
I  started  at  sunrise  on  a  tour  of  investigation. 
I  knew  we  were  running  low  in  our  stock  of  food, 
so  I  climbed  a  tree  to  a  hole  in  which  I  saw  a 
squirrel  disappear.  Just  as  I  reached  it  he 
popped  out  his  head,  and  I  was  lucky  enough  to 
catch  him  before  he  could  retreat."  He  pulled 
the  body  of  the  animal  in  question  out  of  one 
pocket,  and  from  the  other  drew  a  double  hand- 
ful of  nuts.  "  I  found  he  had  not  exhausted  his 
store  of  last  winter,  so  I  brought  these  along  too. 
Now,  while  we  eat  the  berries  and  nuts,  I  will  tell 

172 


A    FRIGHT   AND    A    JOURNEY 

you  some  good  news.   We  will  have  to  save  Mon- 
sieur Squirrel  to  be  devoured  later." 

All  four  proceeded  to  partake  of  the  breakfast 
thus  provided.    FranQois  continued: 

"  I  lay  awake  a  long  time  last  night  thinking 
over  the  next  step  in  our  return.  To  continue 
on  foot  along  the  river  until  we  came  to  the  spot 
where  I  hid  the  canoe  would  be  a  long  and  dif- 
ficult journey.  There  is  no  telling  when  we 
would  come  across  just  such  another  party  of 
Indians  as  we  did  yesterday,  and  I  fear  we  would 
not  escape  their  notice  as  easily  a  second  time. 
Besides,  our  means  of  procuring  food  when  our 
present  store  is  exhausted  is  too  precarious.  The 
only  alternative  to  my  mind  was  to  build  a  raft 
and  thus  float  down,  but  with  only  one  knife  with 
which  to  cut  the  necessary  wood  it  would  be  weeks 
probably  before  we  would  be  ready  to  start." 
Then  seeing  the  look  of  conster»ation  on  Jean's 
face,  he  added  laughingly :  "  Do  not  be  alarmed, 
mes  amis,  for  I  have  found  a  solution  to  the  dif- 
ficulty. Le  bon  Dieu  has  provided  us  with  a  boat, 
and  all  we  have  to  do  is  to  embark." 

173 


COMRADES    THREE 

To  the  eager  inquiries  of  the  boys  he  merely 
shook  his  head,  and  went  on  calmly  munching  his 
share  of  the  nuts  and  berries  he  had  brought. 

When  they  had  finished,  they  all  repaired  to  a 
spot  on  the  water's  edge  near  by.  Here  they 
found  that  a  large  dead  tree  undermined  by  the 
spring  flood  had  recently  tumbled  into  the  water, 
a  few  of  its  roots  still  clinging  to  the  soil  and 
alone  preventing  it  from  being  swept  away  by 
the  current. 

"Behold  our  vessel!"  exclaimed  Francois, 
"  that  only  lacks  a  rudder." 

The  remainder  of  the  day  was  spent  in  fash- 
ioning a  rude  oar  or  sweep  out  of  a  young  fallen 
tree,  and  by  evening  all  was  in  readiness  for 
their  departure.  The  sick  man  was  laid  among 
the  gnarled  mass  of  roots,  while  the  improvised 
rudder  was  thrust  between  them,  so  as  to  trail 
along  behind.  The  few  remaining  attachments 
were  cut,  and  the  boys,  springing  aboard,  soon 
swung  out  into  the  stream  and  their  homeward 
voyage  was  commenced.  By  dint  of  hard  work 
with  the  oarlike  rudder,  the  strange  craft  was 

174 


A    FRIGHT    AND    A    JOURNEY 

guided  in  its  course.  A  bright  starlit  night  with 
a  moon  half  full  gave  them  sufficient  light.  The 
current,  although  not  swift,  was  rapid  enough  to 
insure  a  much  quicker  progress  than  would  have 
been  the  case  had  they  attempted  to  proceed  by 
land. 

It  was  necessary  to  travel  by  night  in  order  to 
escape  observation,  so  the  three  lads  remained 
awake,  not  a  difficult  thing  to  do  under  the  cir- 
cumstances. The  stranger,  in  his  secure  location 
among  the  roots,  slept  peacefully. 

Just  before  day  Francois  skillfully  steered 
their  ungainly  looking  vessel  behind  a  point 
where  there  was  little  or  no  current,  then  by  vig- 
orous paddling  and  poling  brought  it  close  to 
shore.  After  landing,  they  made  fast  to  the  bank 
and  clambered  once  more  on  to  firm  soil.  They 
felt  very  stiff  and  tired  from  their  night's  ride, 
and  after  eating  sparingly  of  their  provisions 
sought  the  shelter  of  a  near-by  leafy  thicket,  and 
soon  all  were  asleep. 

In  the  evening  they  put  off  once  more,  and  suc- 
ceeded ere  dawn  in  covering  a  considerable  dis- 

175 


COMRADES    THREE 

tance  of  their  journey.  Thus  they  proceeded, 
concealing  themselves  by  day  for  rest  and  travel- 
ing by  night.  Nothing  eventful  happened  save 
on  the  third  night  when,  the  current  taking  them 
close  to  shore,  they  passed  a  low  burning  camp 
fire  about  which  lay  the  blanketed  forms  of  six 
Indians. 

The  fifth  night  Francois  began  to  scan  anx- 
iously the  left-hand  bank  for  sight  of  the  land- 
mark— two  blasted  pines  near  the  waters  of  a 
quiet  bay — by  which  he  could  recognize  the  spot 
where  he  had  hidden  the  canoe.  At  last,  just  as 
dawn  broke,  he  spied  them,  and  an  hour  later 
they  had  landed,  discovered  the  canoe,  and  were 
ravenously  eating  of  the  store  of  provisions  and 
examining  the  firearms  and  ammunition  it  con- 
tained. Luckily  everything  had  been  preserved 
intact.  Now  that  they  were  armed  and  had  pro- 
ceeded so  near  to  the  St.  Lawrence,  they  decided 
to  travel  by  daylight.  Hence,  disdaining  any 
rest,  they  embarked  at  once,  and  soon  their  flash- 
ing paddles  were  sending  their  swift  craft  rush- 
ing through  the  water  toward  Quebec. 

176 


They  passed  a  low  burning  camp  tire." 


A    FRIGHT   AND    A    JOURNEY 

The  sick  man,  while  still  very  weak,  sat  in  the 
stern  contented  and  happy,  each  day  showing  a 
further  stage  in  his  mental  recovery.  Soon  the 
St.  Lawrence  was  reached,  and  they  felt  that  all 
danger  was  now  past.  On  they  sped  by  day,  rest- 
ing before  a  warm  camp  fire  by  night.  Good 
game  fell  before  their  aim,  and  so  all  physical 
evidence  of  the  hardships  they  had  endured  soon 
disappeared. 

La  Prairie  was  passed ;  then  Montreal.  Their 
desire  to  reach  home  prevented  them  from  stop- 
ping anywhere.  Finally,  after  four  days  longer, 
the  distant  view  of  the  fort  burst  upon  their 
vision.  They  greeted  the  sight  with  a  cheer,  and 
pressed  on  until,  just  as  the  great  clock  of  the 
chateau  tolled  midnight,  they  landed  at  Quebec. 


177 


CHAPTER   XIV 

DEPICTS  A  GLAD  HOME-COMING  FOR  THE  TRAVELERS 
AND   ONE    OTHER 

Together  the  four  voyagers  climbed  the  steep 
street  leading  up  from  the  lower  town.  The 
sick  man  had  recovered  sufficient  strength,  after 
his  long  rest  in  the  canoe,  to  enable  him  to  walk 
slowly  without  assistance.  The  town  was  silent, 
save  for  the  distant  cry  of  the  sentries  changing 
post  on  the  battlements  above  them,  and  the 
streets  seemed  deserted.  Quietly  and  carefully 
they  proceeded  within  the  shadows  lest  they 
should  meet  some  late  comer  who,  perchance  rec- 
ognizing some  one  of  them,  might  spread  abroad 
the  news  of  their  return.  Naturally  they  di- 
rected their  steps  toward  the  house  of  Jacques 
Ormesson,  he  who  had  been  their  counselor  and 
friend.    They  knew  his  sympathy  and  friendship 

178 


A    GLAD    HOME-COMING 

could  be  relied  upon  to  aid  them  in  their  present 
plight. 

At  length  they  stood  before  his  shop  door, 
dark  and  forbidding  in  the  midnight  shade. 
Pierre,  bidding  the  others  await  him  there,  ran 
around  to  the  side  beneath  the  window  of  the 
room  he  knew  his  friend  occupied.  Feeling  on 
the  ground  he  found  a  pebble,  which  he  tossed 
gently  against  the  glass.  The  click  produced  no 
effect.  He  threw  another.  Still  no  response.  A 
fear  seized  him  that  perhaps  the  trader  was  not 
at  home,  but  had  left  the  city  on  some  business 
errand.  A  third  time  he  hit  the  glass.  This  re- 
sulted in  the  window  being  opened  and  a  voice 
calling  harshly,  "  Who's  there  ? "  For  all  its 
gruffness,  Pierre  recognized  it  as  belonging  to 
his  friend.  "  It  is  I,  Pierre  Bordeleau,"  he  re- 
plied in  a  low  tone. 

"  Mille  tonnerresi "  was  the  astonished  re- 
joinder as  the  window  was  opened  to  its  full 
extent  and  a  head  was  thrust  out  into  the 
darkness. 

"  It  is  I,  mon  ami,"  continued  Pierre.  "  We 
179 


COMRADES    THREE 

have  all  returned  in  safety,  and  are  waiting  at 
your  door.  Will  you  not  hasten  down  and  let 
us  in?" 

"  Grace  a  Dieul  It  is  he  indeed,"  exclaimed 
the  excited  Ormesson  as  he  quickly  withdrew  his 
head  and  shut  the  window  with  a  bang. 

Pierre  returned  to  his  companions  at  the  front 
of  the  house.  Presently  a  glimmer  of  light  was 
seen  beneath  the  sill,  the  sound  of  bars  being 
removed  was  heard,  and  the  door  swung  open,  re- 
vealing the  eager  figure  of  the  trader  in  his  night 
attire,  holding  a  candle  in  one  hand  while  he 
peered  anxiously  forth  at  the  small  group.  They 
entered,  and  he  quickly  shut  the  door  and  barred 
it,  then  turning  to  his  companions  held  the  light  to 
their  faces  with  a  look  in  which  joy  and  incredu- 
lity were  struggling  for  the  mastery.  A  glance 
was  sufficient  to  reassure  him.  Putting  the  candle 
down  upon  the  counter  he  sprang  forward,  and 
seizing  the  two  brothers  in  his  strong  grasp  he 
embraced  them  heartily,  then  holding  them  at 
arm's  length  he  gazed  at  them  affectionately  for 
a  moment,  and  almost  crushed  them  again  in  his 

180 


A    GLAD    HOME-COMING 

arms,  so  great  was  his  fervor.  Then  for  the  first 
time  did  he  realize  that  the  boys  were  not  alone. 
Quickly  recognizing  Francois,  he  gave  him  a 
hearty  welcome.  His  eyes  fell  upon  the  stranger, 
who  stood  gazing  with  a  helpless,  puzzled  look  at 
the  shelves  filled  with  their  stock  of  skins  and 
goods,  partially  revealed  by  the  flickering  light 
of  the  candle.  The  trader  turned  an  inquiring 
glance  toward  Pierre.  The  latter  answered  his 
mute  question  in  a  low  voice.  "  A  sick  man 
whom  we  have  brought  back  with  us.  He  is  not 
quite  right  here,"  touching  his  forehead.  "  He 
is  weary.  If  you  will  give  him  a  bed,  we  will 
await  your  return.  We  have  a  long  story  to  tell." 
Ormesson  nodded  and,  leading  the  way  to  his 
little  sitting  room  back  of  the  shop,  lighted  an- 
other candle,  stirred  the  dying  embers  on  the 
hearth,  flung  on  some  wood,  and,  motioning  to 
the  boys  to  remain,  beckoned  to  the  stranger  and 
disappeared  with  him  up  the  stairs.  In  a  few 
moments  he  returned  alone,  partly  dressed.  "  A 
pitiable  sight  indeed,"  he  exclaimed.  "  The  poor 
wretch  was  completely  worn  out,  and  was  asleep 

181 


COMRADES    THREE 

before  I  left  his  room."  Then  going  to  a  cup- 
board, he  produced  some  cold  meat,  bread,  a  bot- 
tle of  wine,  and  some  glasses,  which  he  placed 
before  his  guests,  who  were  not  slow  to  help 
themselves.  He  then  lighted  his  pipe  and,  lean- 
ing back  in  his  chair,  sat  silently  puffing  while  he 
watched  the  boys  with  an  air  of  delight  and  in- 
tense satisfaction.  When  they  had  finished  eat- 
ing he  broke  the  silence. 

"  Now,  mes  amis,  that  you  have  eaten,  you  will 
perhaps  let  me  hear  the  sound  of  your  voices  to 
assure  me  that  I  am  not  dreaming,  and  tell  me 
from  what  quarter  of  the  universe  you  have 
dropped  at  this  hour  of  the  night.  Hasten,  for 
I  am  fairly  bursting  with  curiosity." 

"  It  is  a  long  story,"  answered  Pierre,  "  and  I 
shall  commence  at  the  beginning  and  tell  you  the 
whole  history  of  our  adventures." 

He  then  began  his  recital  with  an  account  of 
their  surprise  and  capture  in  the  cave,  followed 
by  a  rapid  yet  full  narrative  of  all  that  had  hap- 
pened to  them  since  that  event. 

The  trader  listened  attentively  to  every  word 
182 


A    GLAD    HOME-COMING 

in  silence,  the  nervous  pull  at  his  pipe  and  the 
clouds  of  smoke  he  emitted  from  his  mouth  be- 
traying his  absorbing  interest.  When  Pierre  de- 
scribed the  torture  of  the  Indian  brave,  and  told 
of  their  discovery  that  they  were  to  be  treated  in 
a  like  manner,  he  stopped  smoking  and  sat  open- 
mouthed,  with  a  gaze  of  affectionate  anxiety 
upon  his  honest  features.  When  he  learned  of 
Francois's  appearance  upon  the  scene  with  a 
view  to  their  rescue,  his  face  lighted  up  and  he 
muttered  "  Bravo !  "  When  he  heard  of  Jean's 
insistence  in  the  face  of  great  danger  on  the  res- 
cue of  the  unknown  prisoner,  his  feelings  over- 
mastered him  and,  rising,  he  seized  him  in  his 
arms  and  fairly  shook  him  with  admiring  delight. 
"  Noble  youth ! "  he  cried.  "  Would  that  my 
blood  were  in  your  veins  and  I  could  claim  you  as 
mine !  But,  pardon,  I  will  not  interrupt  again," 
and  resuming  his  seat  he  relighted  his  pipe.  He 
chuckled  with  delight  at  their  final  escape,  and 
laughed  heartily  at  the  episode  of  the  hollow  tree. 
He  remained  quiet  until  Pierre  related  what 
Francois  had  overheard  regarding  the  perfidy  of 
13  183 


COMRADES    THREE 

their  uncle.  Then  with  a  cry  he  threw  his  pipe 
across  the  room,  and  springing  to  his  feet  walked 
up  and  down  in  a  fury.  "  Villain,  rascal,  rogue, 
knave,  scoundrel,  miscreant,  vile  wretch,  fiend !  " 
he  exclaimed  in  his  anger.  "  I  suspected  some  of 
his  contemptible  work  at  the  start,  but  my  imagi- 
nation never  conceived  such  vile  depths  to  his 
reprobate  nature." 

When  he  had  quieted  himself  he  stopped  be- 
fore the  fire.  "  I,  too,  have  a  tale  to  tell  and  news 
to  communicate  that  will  prove  of  interest  to  you. 
The  day  after  your  departure  I  learned  from 
outside  sources  that  you  had  disappeared.  I 
hastened  to  the  house  of  Captain  Bordeleau  for 
information,  and  found  him  apparently  in  a  state 
of  great  excitement  over  your  absence.  He  took 
me  to  your  room,  showed  me  the  rope  ladder  still 
fastened  to  your  window,  and  declared  his  belief 
that  you  had  taken  to  the  woods  to  enter  upon 
the  wild  roving  life  of  the  coureurs-de-bois.  The 
fact  that  Frangois  also  could  not  be  found 
strengthened  his  view.  I  sympathized  with  him, 
but,  of  course,  believed  you  were  safe  in  the  cave. 

184 


A    GLAD    HOME-COMING 

Not  hearing  from  you  during  the  next  few  days, 
I  went  myself  to  *  Chimney  Rock,'  which  you  told 
me  was  directly  over  your  hiding  place,  and 
called  to  you.  On  receiving  no  response  I  has- 
tened to  the  city  and  conferred  with  the  Gover- 
nor. In  the  mean  time  your  uncle  had  publicly 
offered  a  reward  of  a  hundred  louis  for  informa- 
tion concerning  your  whereabouts.  Finally,  a 
censitaire  living  on  the  other  side  of  the  river 
appeared  to  claim  the  reward,  saying  that  while 
hunting  he  had  discovered  a  small  party  of  Iro- 
quois making  their  way  southward  toward  their 
own  country.  He  hid  on  their  approach,  and  as 
they  passed  him  he  declared  he  saw  three  white 
youths  being  led  along  as  prisoners.  Your  uncle 
then  offered  to  pay  a  thousand  louis  for  your  safe 
discovery  and  return,  and  sent  several  small  par- 
ties at  his  own  expense  in  the  direction  it  was 
reported  the  band  of  Iroquois  had  taken.  They 
returned  empty-handed,  of  course.  He  then  ap- 
pealed to  the  Governor  Frontenac  to  allow  him 
to  go  at  the  head  of  an  expedition  of  five  hundred 
soldiers  against  the  Indiahs.    The  Governor  sym- 

185 


COMRADES    THREE 

pathized  with  him  in  his  distress,  but  because  of 
the  threatened  English  invasion  by  sea  dared  not 
spare  any  of  his  forces.  Your  uncle  then  shut 
himself  up  in  his  house  for  a  week,  ostensibly  to 
mourn  for  you.  Ma  foil  he  acted  his  part  well 
and  deceived  everyone,  even  myself,  who  had 
reason  to  suspect  him.  At  length,  I,  too,  gave 
up  hope  and  regarded  you  as  dead,  for  I  well 
knew  what  the  fate  would  be  of  any  French  cap- 
tive that  might  fall  into  those  devils'  hands  at 
the  present  time.  But  now,  grace  a  Dieu,  you 
are  returned  safely,"  and  he  gazed  silently  at  the 
boys,  the  light  of  a  great  joy  shining  from  his 
moistened  eyes. 

After  a  moment  or  two  of  silence  he  again 
spoke. 

"  Many  changes  have  occurred  since  you  left. 
The  country  is  threatened  with  an  invasion  by 
the  English,  who  are  reported  to  be  ascending 
the  St.  Lawrence  in  full  force  under  Sir  William 
Phips,  of  Boston.  In  fact  a  messenger  arrived 
to-day  reporting  that  the  fleet  had  already  ad- 
vanced above  Tadousac.    Quebec  is  newly  for- 

186 


A    GLAD    HOME-COMING 

tified  on  its  weak  side,  and  many  of  the  soldiers 
have  been  withdrawn  from  Montreal  and  Three 
Rivers  for  its  defense.  You  have  come  in  time 
to  witness  stirring  events,  and  perhaps  have  a 
share  in  them.  But  first  must  be  decided  what 
you  will  do  next.  The  sick  man  can  be  left  in 
my  care.  As  to  yourselves,  I  know  not  what  to 
say.  It  will  never  do  for  your  uncle  to  learn  of 
your  return  at  this  time.  In  the  confusion  and 
excitement  of  an  attack  upon  the  city,  there  is 
no  knowing  what  bloody  deed  he  might  not  be 
able  to  effect  against  you.  He  is  capable  of 
anything." 

"  Why  not  go  back  to  the  cave  ? "  suggested 
FrauQois  simply. 
"  And  run  the  risk  of  capture  by  the  English?  " 
"  I  will  guarantee  that  they  will  never  discover 
us,"  replied  Pierre,  who  waxed  enthusiastic  at 
the  thought  of  once  more  taking  up  their  abode 
in  their  secret  place.  "  Besides  it  will  keep  us 
out  of  our  uncle's  way,  and  who  knows  but  that 
we  might  be  of  some  service  against  the  enemy 
by  learning  of  their  plans?  " 

187 


COMRADES    THREE 

"  Yes,  or  blowing  up  one  of  their  ships  by 
night,"  exclaimed  Jean  valorously. 

"  Leave  such  warlike  measures  to  those  whose 
trade  it  is  to  fight,  mon  ami"  replied  the  trader 
with  a  smile.  Then  added  thoughtfully :  "  I 
do  not  know  but  after  all  Frangois's  suggestion 
is  good.  You  are  distant  far  enough  to  avoid 
danger  from  the  enemy  and  can  keep  out  of  your 
uncle's  way.  The  attack  will  be  over  in  a  short 
time,  as  I  understand  there  are  but  two  thousand 
in  the  approaching  force,  while  in  two  days  more 
we  will  have  over  three  thousand  here  for  the 
defense.  And  now,"  he  continued  briskly  after 
a  few  moments  of  thoughtful  silence,  "  that  we 
have  decided  the  matter,  you  must  be  off  at  once ; 
it  lacks  but  two  hours  till  day." 

The  party  thereupon  broke  up,  the  three 
boys  leaving  as  they  had  returned,  taking  with 
them  a  load  of  blankets  and  provisions  as  well 
as  ammunition  forced  upon  them  by  the  kind 
trader. 

They  regained  their  canoe  without  discovery, 
and  soon  had  left  the  city  behind  them,  paddling 

188 


A    GLAD    HOME-COMING 

swiftly  toward  their  new  dwelling  place,  until  at 
the  first  gray  of  dawn  they  entered  the  cave, 
and,  thoroughly  tired,  flung  themselves  content- 
edly down  to  sleep  in  peace  within  its  familiar 
shadows. 


189 


CHAPTER   XV 

IN  WHICH  THE  GOVERNOR  RECEIVES  AN  INSOLENT 
MESSAGE  AND  THE  TWO  BROTHERS  MEET  WITH 
A  GREAT  SURPRISE 

Day  dawned,  and  while  the  boys  slumbered 
an  unaccustomed  scene  was  enacted  upon  the 
mighty  river.  Scarcely  had  the  morning  mists 
vanished  when  up  swept  the  forces  of  the  Eng- 
lish, thirty-four  sail  in  all.  One  by  one  they 
passed  the  Point  of  Orleans,  and  glided  noise- 
lessly into  the  Basin  of  Quebec.  A  half  dozen 
were  large  ships,  the  rest  dwindled  down  in  size, 
brigs  and  schooners,  until  finally  some  there 
were  no  larger  than  fishing  craft.  One  by  one 
they  dropped  anchor  and  furled  sails,  while  from 
each  masthead  there  broke  the  cross  of  St. 
George,  amid  lusty  cries  of  "  God  save  King 
William  "  from  the  men  who  swarmed  the  decks. 
From  the  flagstaff  at  the  Chateau  St.  Louis, 

190 


AN    INSOLENT    MESSAGE 

perched  on  the  giant  rock,  there  floated  a  white 
banner,  spangled  with  fleur-de-lis,  boldly  waving 
defiance  in  the  morning  breeze,  while  the  crowds 
of  soldiers,  coureurs-de-bois,  peasants  from  the 
outlying  farms,  and  townsfolk  shouted  derision 
at  the  motley  craft  below  them,  and  cheered 
heartily  for  their  beloved  monarch,  Louis  XIV. 
About  ten  o'clock  a  boat  put  out  from  the  flag- 
ship flying  a  flag  of  truce.  It  was  met  halfway 
by  several  canoes  from  the  landing  place.  The 
boat  contained  a  young  officer  who  bore  a  letter 
from  Sir  William  Phips  to  the  Governor.  He 
was  allowed  to  land,  and,  after  being  carefully 
blindfolded,  was  led  to  the  upper  town.  In 
order  to  bewilder  him  a  circuitous  route  was 
taken,  now  up,  now  down.  Barricades  were  met 
with  over  which  he  was  compelled  to  climb,  while 
all  the  while  a  large  crowd  accompanied  him, 
creating  as  much  stir  as  possible,  so  as  to  impress 
him  with  the  large  number  of  the  defenders. 
Finally  the  Chateau  was  reached,  and  when  he 
had  entered  the  Governor's  room  the  bandage 
was  removed  from  his  eyes  and  he  found  him- 

191 


COMRADES    THREE 

self  in  the  presence  of  Frontenac,  haughty  and 
stem,  and  his  officers,  resplendent  in  their  bright 
uniforms,  all  wearing  a  determined  and  warlike 
demeanor.  He  saluted  the  Governor  with  re- 
spect, and  presented  him  with  the  letter  which 
he  bore.  Frontenac  handed  it  to  an  interpreter 
who  translated  it  aloud.  In  brief  it  was  a  com- 
plaint of  the  various  inroads  made  by  the  French 
against  the  English  colonies  in  the  past,  ending 
with  a  formal  demand  for  the  surrender  of 
Quebec. 

"  I,  the  aforesaid  William  Phips,  knight,  do 
hereby,  in  the  name  and  in  the  behalf  of  their 
most  excellent  majesties,  William  and  Mary, 
king  and  queen  of  England,  Scotland,  France, 
and  Ireland,  defenders  of  the  faith,  and  by  order 
of  their  said  majesties'  government  of  the  Mas- 
sachusetts Colony  in  New  England,  demand  a 
present  surrender  of  your  forts  and  castles,  un- 
demolished,  and  the  king's  and  other  stores,  un- 
embezzled,  with  a  seasonable  delivery  of  all  cap- 
tives. Your  answer  positive  within  an  hour  is 
required  upon  the  peril  that  will  ensue." 

192 


AN    INSOLENT    MESSAGE 

The  young  English  officer  then  pulled  his 
watch  out  of  his  pocket,  showed  Frontenac  that 
it  was  ten  o'clock,  and  that  he  must  have  his 
answer  before  eleven.  The  general  insolent  tone 
of  the  message  provoked  a  cry  of  indignation 
from  the  group  of  officers  surrounding  the  gov- 
ernor, one  of  them  even  exclaiming  that  Phips 
was  nothing  but  a  pirate  and  his  messenger 
should  be  straightway  hanged. 

Frontenac  rebuked  their  lack  of  courtesy,  and 
turning  to  the  young  officer  replied : 

"I  will  not  keep  you  waiting  so  long.  Tell 
your  general  that  I  do  not  recognize  King  Will- 
iam. That  he  who  so  styles  himself  is  a  usurper. 
I  know  no  King  of  England  but  King  James. 
Even  if  your  general  offered  me  conditions  more 
gracious,  and  if  I  had  a  mind  to  accept  them, 
does  he  suppose  that  these  brave  gentlemen," 
waving  his  hand  toward  his  officers,  "  would  give 
their  consent  and  advise  me  to  trust  a  man  who 
broke  his  agreement  with  our  Governor  of  Port 
Royal,  or  a  rebel  who  has  failed  in  his  duty  to 
his  King?    I  will  give  you  no  written  answer  to 

193 


COMRADES    THREE 

your  commander's  insolent  demand.  Tell  him  I 
shall  answer  him  only  by  the  mouths  of  my  can- 
non, that  he  may  learn  that  a  man  like  I  am  is 
not  to  be  summoned  after  this  fashion.  Let  him 
do  his  best,  and  I  will  do  mine."  With  a  bow 
of  dismissal  Frontenac  turned  and  walked  away. 
The  English  officer  was  then  blindfolded,  led 
over  the  barricades  again,  and  sent  back  to  the 
fleet  by  the  boat  that  brought  him.  Frontenac 
then  assigned  his  officers  to  their  respective  posi- 
tions, ordering  them  not  to  fire  until  the  enemy 
had  sent  the  first  shot.  The  moments  passed  in 
eager  expectancy.  The  gunners  waited  with 
fuses  lighted  and  cannon  trained  on  the  hostile 
fleet.  Mass  was  said  in  the  cathedral  and  pray- 
ers for  success  were  offered.  The  townspeople 
sought  safety  behind  the  doors  of  their  own 
houses.  A  half-hour  passed.  Then  a  signal  ap- 
peared upon  the  flagship,  a  sudden  activity 
arose  on  board  all  the  vessels,  anchors  were 
raised,  and  the  entire  flotilla  drifted  down  with 
the  current  to  a  point  half  a  league  below  Que- 
bec, where  anchors  were  again  dropped  and  a 

194 


AN    INSOLENT    MESSAGE 

council  of  war  was  held.  This  lasted  all  day  and 
night  came  on  with  nothing  done.  The  attack 
had  been  postponed  until  the  morrow. 

Meanwhile  the  boys  slept  peacefully,  uncon- 
scious of  the  warlike  events  occurring  at  their 
very  door.  It  was  long  past  noon  when  they 
awakened.  Frangois,  looking  out  of  the  mouth 
of  the  cave,  beheld  the  surface  of  the  river  dotted 
with  the  foreign  fleet.  Hastily  summoning  his 
companions,  he  pointed  out  the  new  arrivals. 
Together  they  spent  the  afternoon  watching  the 
boats  going  and  coming  between  the  different 
vessels,  conveying  officers  to  the  war  council  on 
board  the  admiral's  ship,  carrying  orders  and 
distributing  ammunition  among  the  smaller 
craft.  Toward  sunset  the  sky  became  overcast, 
and  the  short  twilight  quickly  faded  into  night. 
FrauQois  announced  his  determination  to  slip  out 
in  the  direction  of  Beauport,  and  see  if  he  could 
not  learn  from  some  one  what  the  probable 
course  of  events  would  be.  He  promised  to  re- 
turn by  midnight  and  advised  the  two  brothers 
not  to  stir  out. 

195 


COMRADES    THREE 

For  a  long  time  the  boys  sat  looking  out  into 
the  night,  watching  the  twinkling  of  the  lights 
on  board  the  fleet,  and  conversing  in  low  tones. 
At  length  Pierre  yawned  and  exclaimed  in  a 
peevish  voice :  "I  do  not  see  why  Francois 
should  have  left  us  behind.  He  is  actively  en- 
gaged while  we  are  shut  up  here  accomplishing 
nothing;  we  might  as  well  be  prisoners  in  the 
Indian  hut." 

Jean  was  silent  for  a  moment.  Then  without 
apparently  noticing  his  brother's  remark: 

"  I  wish  while  Frangois  is  busy  on  shore  that 
we  might  visit  those  lights  out  yonder  and  learn 
what  sort  of  people  the  English  are." 

"  We  might  go  in  the  canoe ;  it  is  so  dark  I 
do  not  think  we  would  run  much  risk  of  being 
seen,"  replied  Pierre. 

"  Agreed." 

In  a  moment  they  had  dragged  forth  the  canoe 
from  its  hiding  place.  In  another  they  were 
launched  and  paddling  swiftly  toward  the  dis- 
tant fleet.  Neither  spoke,  but  both  bent  to  the 
work  with  a  will.    Soon  they  approached  one  of 

196 


AN    INSOLENT    MESSAGE 

the  lights.  It  was  that  of  a  small  vessel.  The 
night  was  so  still  they  could  hear  the  voices  of 
men  on  deck  chatting  and  laughing  in  subdued 
tones.  They  passed  on.  Soon  the  dim  outlines 
of  a  large  ship  were  visible  ahead.  They  glided 
under  the  bow.  No  sound  was  heard  save  the 
slight  rippling  of  the  current  against  the  anchor 
chain.  As  they  drifted  by  they  could  make  out 
the  form  of  a  small  boat  attached  to  the  landing 
stage.  They  waited,  thinking  that  some  one  was 
about  to  leave  whom  they  could  follow.  No  one 
appeared.  Silently  they  dropped  beneath  the 
stern.  The  windows  were  open  and  a  soft  light 
suffused  itself  through  the  darkness.  The  low 
murmur  of  voices  engaged  in  earnest  conversa- 
tion was  heard.  They  floated  away.  As  soon 
as  they  were  out  of  earshot  Jean  whispered  to 
his  brother :  "  Let  us  go  back.  I  can  draw  my- 
self up  by  the  rudder  chains;  perhaps  I  will 
overhear  their  plan  of  attack  discussed.  Do  you 
keep  the  canoe  ready  for  me  to  drop  into  when 
I  wish  to  leave."  In  a  moment  they  had  re- 
turned.   Jean  laid  aside  his  paddle  and  at  the 

197 


COMRADES    THREE 

right  instant  obtained  a  firm  hold  and  drew  him- 
self silently  up  and  soon  was  safely  perched  just 
beneath  the  open  window.  He  dared  not  look 
in,  but  placed  his  ear  as  near  as  possible  and 
listened. 

The  voices  were  stilled.  A  rustling  as  of  a 
sheet  of  heavy  paper  being  unrolled  broke  the 
silence.  Then  a  voice  sounded  that  made  Jean 
gasp. 

"  Here  is  a  rough  sketch  of  Quebec  and  its  sur- 
roundings. The  city  is  impregnable  except  in 
one  spot.  If  you  once  gain  that,  the  place  is 
yours.  Under  cover  of  darkness  you  must  land 
your  men  here.  Let  them  follow  up  the  right 
bank  of  the  St.  Charles  and  conceal  themselves 
in  a  large  wooded  area  they  will  find  here. 
"While  you  engage  the  attention  of  the  defenders 
by  a  brisk  cannonade  from  the  river  by  your  en- 
tire fleet,  your  party  in  ambush  must  cross  the 
St.  Charles  by  the  ford  indicated  here.  Once 
crossed,  with  a  sufficiently  large  body  of  men, 
you  can  enter  the  city  from  this  side." 

Jean's  eyes  grew  large  with  wonder.  It  was 
198 


AN    INSOLENT    MESSAGE 

his  uncle's  voice  he  heard  thus  directing  the 
enemy  to  victory.  An  interpreter  was  translat- 
ing each  sentence  into  English. 

"  I  shall  be  in  command  of  the  force  guarding 
the  ford.  After  firing  one  volley  at  your  men 
as  they  rush  from  cover,  I  shall  announce  that 
our  ammunition  is  exhausted  and  give  the  order 
to  retreat.  The  fault  will  be  yours  if  you  do 
not  succeed.  If  you  decide  to  accept  my  terms, 
send  your  representative  to-morrow  night  at 
midnight  to  that  rock  on  the  bluff  near  the  shore 
that  looks  like  a  chimney — ^we  call  it  *  Chimney 
Rock.'  Let  him  bring  with  him  one  thousand 
louis  in  gold,  and  bills  on  the  royal  treasury 
drawn  for  the  equivalent  of  ten  thousand  louis 
more,  signed  by  yourself  and  countersigned  by 
your  second  in  command.  The  price  is  absurdly 
cheap.  In  addition  my  life  is  to  be  protected 
and  I  am  to  escape  to  Boston  in  the  first  vessel 
that  leaves  if  I  so  desire.  My  house,  which  will 
be  marked  by  a  white  cross  chalked  on  the 
door,  is  to  be  preserved  for  me  with  aU  that 
it  contains.'* 

14  199 


COMRADES    THREE 

Some  one  moved  toward  the  window.  Jean 
heard  his  step  and  dropped  lightly  down  into  the 
canoe  and  they  floated  away.  "  Let  us  go  back 
to  the  cave,"  was  all  that  he  said.  On  arriving 
there  they  found  that  Francois  had  returned. 
He  had  learned  little  and  was  disappointed.  Jean 
then  related  what  he  had  overheard.  Pierre 
gave  a  long  whistle.    FranQois  was  silent. 

"  What  are  you  going  to  do  ?  "  Pierre  queried. 

"  I  hardly  believed  my  own  ears,"  was  Jean's 
reply.  "  But  I  could  not  be  mistaken.  How- 
ever, there  is  but  one  thing  to  do  when  a  treason- 
able plan  is  on  foot  to  betray  the  colony.  The 
governor  must  be  informed  in  some  way,  so  that 
the  plot  can  be  frustrated.  I  would  suggest  that 
we  go  and  tell  Jacques  Ormesson  all  I  have 
learned.  His  older  head  will  readily  devise  the 
proper  action  to  take." 

Without  a  further  word  all  three  descended  to 
the  river  and  soon  were  making  the  canoe  skim 
rapidly  toward  the  city.  In  their  haste  they 
nearly  ran  into  one  of  the  enemy's  boats  lying  at 
anchor  without  lights.    The  noise  they  made  was 

200 


AN    INSOLENT    MESSAGE 

heard,  for  a  shot  was  fired  in  their  direction,  but 
went  wide  of  the  mark.  Exercising  more  care 
they  finally  reached  Quebec.  Leaving  Francois 
in  charge  of  the  canoe  they  stole  quickly  up  the 
street.  Although  it  was  nearly  midnight  many 
people  were  abroad,  but  they  escaped  observa- 
tion and  were  soon  at  the  trader's  shop.  A  light 
burning  in  his  back  room  showed  that  he  was 
still  up.  In  a  few  minutes  they  were  all  three 
busily  talking.  When  Jean  finished  recounting 
his  recent  experience,  Jacques  Ormesson  be- 
trayed no  excitement.  "  At  last,"  he  exclaimed, 
"his  crimes  have  found  him  out.  Come  with 
me ! "  he  continued,  as  he  reached  for  his  hat. 

"  Where  are  we  going?  "  asked  Pierre. 

"  To  see  the  Governor." 

Jean  faltered.  "  I  do  not  want  to  be  the  means 
of  injuring  my  uncle,"  he  exclaimed  anxiously. 

"  You  want  to  do  your  duty  to  the  King  and 
Colony.    Come ! "  was  the  trader's  stem  answer. 

Together  they  approached  the  ChMeau.  The 
Governor,  who  had  just  finished  a  council  with 
his  officers,  was  alone. 

201 


COMRADES    THREE 

"  I  have  come  to  present  to  your  Excellency 
the  two  nephews  of  Captain  Bordeleau,  who  re- 
cently disappeared,"  began  Ormesson. 

The  great  man  looked  curiously  and  with 
sympathy  at  the  hoys.  "  Mon  Dieu! "  he  ex- 
claimed heartily,  "I  am  rejoiced  to  hear  you 
have  escaped  from  the  hands  of  those  red  devils 
the  Iroquois." 

"  Not  from  the  hands  of  red  devils,  your 
Excellency,"  replied  the  trader,  "  but  a  white 
one." 

Frontenac  looked  puzzled.  Ormesson  related 
very  briefly  the  experiences  of  the  brothers. 
Then  told  of  their  uncle's  connection  with  the 
affair.  The  Governor  frowned  heavily.  "  That 
is  a  hard  accusation  to  make  against  an  officer," 
he  muttered. 

"  But  I  have  one  still  harder,"  was  the  quiet 
reply.  "  Jean,  do  you  tell  his  Excellency  what 
you  have  overheard  to-night.  Spare  nothing, 
remembering  that  your  duty  to  your  King  and 
country  far  exceeds  that  due  your  scoundrel 
relative." 

202 


AN    INSOLENT    MESSAGE 

Jean  did  as  he  was  bid,  speaking  at  first  with 
a  good  deal  of  trembling  at  finding  himself  talk- 
ing face  to  face  with  the  famous  Governor.  But, 
reassured  by  a  kindly  smile,  he  related  in  full 
detail  the  conversation  on  the  English  vessel. 
As  he  proceeded  the  Governor's  brow  darkened, 
his  hands  were  clinched,  and  a  red  flush  mounted 
to  his  forehead.  When  he  had  finished,  Fron- 
tenac  rose  from  his  chair  and  stamped  heavily 
about  the  room  in  anger. 

"  Pestel "  he  exclaimed  hotly.  "  Has  not  the 
King  foes  enough  among  the  savages  and  Eng- 
lish but  that  there  must  be  found  some  in  his 
own  household,  those  that  draw  his  pay  and 
swear  to  defend  his  honor  and  possessions,  that 
must  needs  traffic  in  treason  I  Ventre  hleuJ  and 
does  this  snake,  this  vile  reptile,  cover  his  tracks 
so  well  that  not  one  of  my  trusted  men,  my 
friends,  my  intimates,  knows  anything  whatever 
about  this  base  plot,  and  it  is  left  to  babes  to 
warn  me  of  the  impending  blow  the  moment 
before  it  falls!  "  - 

Then  subduing  his  emotion  he  approached  the 
203 


COMRADES    THREE 

two  boys  and  laying  a  fatherly  hand  on  each 
he  said  calmly: 

"You  have  done  good  work  this  night.  I 
shall  remember  it.  The  King  himself  shall  hear 
of  it.  And  you,  too,  Ormesson,  you  have  once 
more  proved  yourself  the  honest,  straightfor- 
ward, loyal  subject  and  friend  as  of  yore;  you 
shall  not  be  forgotten  either." 

Then,  pausing  in  thought  a  moment,  he  beck- 
oned the  trader  to  him,  and  in  a  low  voice  con- 
tinued: "Keep  them  with  you  for  a  few  days. 
They  must  not  be  present  when  the  net  is  drawn. 
Come  to  me  alone  to-morrow." 


204 


CHAPTER   XVI 

DEALS    MAINLY    WITH    MILITARY    AFFAIRS.       SHOWS 
HOW  A  TRAP  WAS  SPRUNG  AND  A  BATTLE  WON 

On  leaving  the  Chateau  the  trader  directed  the 
boys  to  return  to  Francois  and  bring  him  with 
them  to  his  house.  In  the  morning  they  break- 
fasted early.  Jean  inquired  after  the  sick  man, 
and  was  informed  that  he  had  been  sent  to  the 
home  of  a  doctor  who  had  taken  entire  charge 
of  him,  and  that  he  was  improving  rapidly.  Or- 
messon  warned  the  boys  against  stirring  out 
during  the  day,  and  leaving  them  to  their  own 
devices  set  out  again  for  the  Chateau.  The  Gov- 
ernor received  him  warmly : 

"  I  have  been  trying  to  think  of  some  plan 
whereby  positive  corroborative  evidence  of  Cap- 
tain Bordeleau's  guilt  can  be  obtained,  but  I  con- 
fess I  have  failed  so  far.  What  have  you  to 
suggest!"  - — 

"  Suppose  your  Excellency,  together  with  a 
205 


COMRADES    THREE 

trusted  officer,  were  to  be  present  at  the  meeting 
to-night  between  the  plotters,  and  witness  the 
payment  of  the  price  agreed  upon." 

Frontenac  laughed.  "  I  fear  Captain  Borde- 
leau  and  the  English  emissary  would  object  to 
my  presence  at  such  an  interesting  moment." 

The  trader  then  described  the  location  of  the 
cave.  "  If  your  Excellency  were  to  be  in  hiding 
there  you  could  undoubtedly  overhear  all  conver- 
sation held  between  them.  The  opening  extend- 
ing from  the  interior  of  the  cave  through  the 
cleft  in  *  Chimney  Rock '  would  easily  carry  the 
sound  of  their  voices." 

The  Governor  brought  his  fist  down  upon  his 
chair  with  a  resounding  blow. 

*'Parhleu!"  he  exclaimed  enthusiastically. 
"A  capital  idea!  We  will  destroy  their  plot 
with  a  counterplot,  and  match  our  cunning  against 
theirs.  But  how  can  we  find  the  cave  without 
the  assistance  of  the  two  lads?  I  am  unwilling 
to  force  them  to  be  witnesses  of  their  uncle's 
downfall." 

"  Their  companion,  Frangois,  will  have  no 
206 


A    TRAP    AND    A    BATTLE 

compunction  about  aiding  in  bringing  the  traitor 
to  justice.    He  can  guide  you." 

"  Tres  bieni  Do  you  arrange  with  him  to 
direct  us.  You  must  be  one  of  the  party.  Have 
a  canoe  ready  and  bring  him  with  you  to  the 
Chateau  at  nine  o^clock." 

All  day  the  garrison  and  its  hardy  defenders 
maintained  an  attitude  of  vigilance,  ready  to 
repel  any  attack,  Frontenac  fearing  lest  the  Eng- 
lish might  decide  not  to  accept  Captain  Borde- 
leau's  offer  of  assistance.  The  distant  fleet, 
however,  remained  quietly  at  anchor,  and  the  day 
was  passed  without  any  warlike  movement  being 
made  on  either  side. 

At  nine  o'clock  precisely  Ormesson  and  Fran- 
cois appeared  at  the  ChMeau.  A  few  moments 
later  they  descended  to  the  Lower  Town  in  com- 
pany with  the  Governor  and  one  of  his  officers, 
carefully  muffled  to  escape  recognition,  and  after 
silently  embarking  started  for  their  destination. 
The  night  aided  their  effort,  for  a  light  rain  was 
falling,  thus  rendering  easy  the  task  of  slipping 
by  the  enemy's  ships  without  detection. 

207 


COMRADES    THREE 

A  season  of  vigorous  paddling  ensued,  then 
they  turned  inshore  and  landed.  The  canoe  was 
carefully  hidden  among  the  bushes,  and  the 
party  entered  the  cave.  After  an  hour's  silent 
waiting,  FranQois,  who  had  remained  on  watch 
at  the  entrance,  reported  the  appearance  of  a 
boat.  Presently  the  muffled  stroke  of  oars  was 
heard,  followed  by  a  slight  grating  sound  as  the 
bow  touched  the  land.  Two  figures  were  dimly 
visible  disembarking  and  disappeared  up  the 
bank.  The  party  then  collected  directly  under- 
neath the  opening  in  the  roof.  Soon  they  heard 
the  approach  of  the  English  emissaries,  who 
stood  beside  the  rock  talking  in  an  undertone, 
awaiting  the  arrival  of  the  traitorous  captain. 
Presently  the  sound  of  some  one  approaching 
from  the  land  side  was  heard,  then  came  in  low 
tones  a  voice  that  all  recognized. 

"  Well,  your  commander  has  decided  to  accept 
my  terms  I " 

"  He  has,"  was  the  reply  of  the  officer,  who 
spoke  French. 

"  Have  you  brought  the  gold  and  the  bills?  " 
208 


A    TRAP    AND    A    BATTLE 

"Here  they  are.  I  will  unhood  this  lantern 
and  you  can  count  them  for  yourself." 

Breathlessly  the  listeners  waited.  The  sound 
of  clinking  metal  came  to  their  ears  as  the  traitor 
examined  it. 

"  The  amount  is  correct,"  he  presently  said, 
"and  the  bills  are  properly  drawn.  Tell  your 
commander  I  shall  faithfully  fulfill  my  part  in 
the  transaction.  Have  your  men  in  ambush  by 
dawn.  Remember,  after  the  first  volley,  when 
you  attack  the  ford,  there  will  be  no  opposition. 
Recollect,  too,  that  the  house  with  the  white  cross 
chalked  on  the  door  is  to  remain  untouched. 
That  is  all,  messieurs;  may  victory  be  yours. 
Good-night." 

The  boat  with  the  English  oflBcers  had  been 
gone  a  full  half-hour  before  the  Governor  and 
his  companions  emerged  from  their  hiding  place 
and  started  homeward.  On  landing,  the  Gover- 
nor walked  rapidly  toward  the  Chateau.  "  The 
evidence  is  complete,"  he  said  in  a  stern  voice  to 
Ormesson  as  they  separated.  "  Woe  be  to  the 
guilty  man  I " 

209 


COMRADES    THREE 

Morning  dawned,  at  first  misty,  but  soon  clear- 
ing. The  city  was  early  astir.  Captain  Borde- 
leau  left  his  home  shortly  after  daybreak  to 
attend  a  final  meeting  of  the  officers  at  the  Cha- 
teau. As  he  closed  the  door  he  turned,  and  draw- 
ing a  piece  of  chalk  from  his  pocket  carefully 
made  a  cross  upon  its  panels.  His  eyes  gleamed 
with  suppressed  excitement,  and  a  satisfied  smile 
played  for  a  moment  upon  his  lips.  An  instant 
later,  when  he  resumed  his  walk,  his  face  was 
immobile  and  presented  to  the  world  only  the 
stern  look  of  a  brave  soldier  laden  with  the 
responsibilities  of  his  position. 

The  plan  of  defense  was  once  more  gone  over 
carefully  by  Frontenac  and  his  officers,  as  the 
deferred  attack  was  now  imminent,  a  report  of 
the  approach  of  the  hostile  fleet  having  been  re- 
ceived. The  Governor  dismissed  the  group  after 
giving  detailed  orders  to  each  one.  Turning  to 
Captain  Bordeleau,  he  rested  his  cold,  stern 
eyes  upon  him.  "  To  you  I  have  assigned  the 
defense  of  our  weakest  point,  that  facing  the 
ford  of  the  St.  Charles.    It  is  of  vital  impor- 

210 


A  TRAP  AND  A  BATTLE 

tance  that  you  hold  it  obstinately  against  all 
odds." 

Captain  Bordeleau  bowed  respectfully.  "I 
feel  honored  by  your  confidence,  your  Excel- 
lency, and  shall  do  all  that  human  power  can 
accomplish  in  behalf  of  King  and  Colony  this 
day."  And  with  this  final  lie  upon  his  lips  he 
retired. 

Up  the  river  swept  the  flotilla  bent  at  last  on 
an  attack  that  should  humiliate  the  proud  for- 
tress of  the  King  of  France,  with  flags  flying, 
drums  beating,  and  the  crews  shouting  them- 
selves hoarse  with  cries  of  "  God  save  King 
William."  The  French  on  their  part  were  no 
less  noisy.  Their  yells  of  defiance  were  mingled 
with  cries  of  joy  at  the  opportune  arrival  of 
seven  hundred  men,  consisting  of  regular  sol- 
diers coureurs-de-bois,  and  lusty  young  farmers 
from  up  the  river.  These  entered  the  western 
gate  full  of  fight,  and  singing  and  whooping  in 
their  eagerness  to  meet  the  enemy.  Soon  the 
fleet  reached  a  position  before  the  town  and 
anchored.    Its  guns  were  pointed  at  the  fortress 

211 


COMRADES    THREE 

and  the  battle  began.  The  French  replied  vigor- 
ously, and  erelong  the  river  and  rock  became  one 
mass  of  smoke,  from  which  belched  forth  the 
spiteful  red  tongues  of  flame.  The  noise  was 
deafening  as  the  cannon  roar  reverberated  from 
the  heights  and  rolled  back  from  the  distant 
mountains  upon  the  scene  of  conflict.  The  guns 
of  the  fleet  were  poorly  aimed,  and  many  of  the 
shot  struck  the  side  of  the  cliff,  dropping  harm- 
lessly below.  Some  of  the  stone  buildings  were 
struck,  but  save  a  few  splinters  of  rock  that  fell, 
little  damage  was  done. 

The  guns  of  the  fort,  by  Frontenac's  direction, 
were  centered  upon  the  four  largest  ships.  This 
action  soon  bore  results.  One  of  them  hauled  off 
and  abandoned  the  fight.  The  admiral's  vessel 
suffered  most.  The  rigging  was  torn,  the  main- 
mast splintered,  the  hull  riddled  with  shot,  until, 
her  condition  becoming  desperate,  Phips  ordered 
her  to  be  cut  loose  from  her  anchor,  and  she 
gradually  drifted  out  of  range  of  the  fire  from 
the  fort,  amid  the  cheers  and  exultant  cries  of 
the  defenders,  who  saw  her  slowly  fade  away 

212 


A    TRAP    AND    A    BATTLE 

through  the  smoke.  Several  of  the  smaller  craft 
were  almost  in  a  sinking  condition,  and  soon  fol- 
lowed the  admiral's  lead.  The  rest  managed  to 
keep  their  positions  with  bulldog  persistence,  and 
endeavored  bravely  to  silence  a  battery  in  the 
Lower  Town. 

Meanwhile  a  force  of  English,  thirteen  hun- 
dred in  number,  who  had  lain  since  before  day 
shivering  and  impatient  in  ambush  near  the  ford 
on  the  St.  Charles,  had  broken  from  cover  at  the 
first  sound  of  cannonading  on  the  river.  Some 
five  hundred  men  under  Captain  Bordeleau  were 
posted  to  resist  their  advance.  At  the  first  rush 
they  fired  a  deadly  volley  into  the  enemy's  ranks, 
who  pushed  bravely  on,  heedless  of  the  fallen. 
The  French  were  reloading  and  about  to  send  an- 
other volley  after  the  first,  when  in  the  lull  the 
voice  of  their  commander  was  heard  excitedly 
exclaiming : 

"  Back,  men,  to  the  city !  Our  supply  of  am- 
munition has  been  detained.  They  are  forur  to 
our  one.    You  will  all  be  slaughtered ! " 

His  soldiers  paused  confused.  To  retreat 
213 


COMRADES    THREE 

after  firing  only  once  seemed  cowardly.  Again 
came  the  summons  in  more  authoritative  tones. 
A  few  of  the  more  impetuous  ones,  disregarding 
all  discipline,  fired  again.  The  majority,  al- 
though chafing  inwardly,  turned  to  withdraw. 
At  this  moment  the  deep  bass  tones  of  Frontenac, 
who  appeared  suddenly  from  the  rear,  reached 
their  ears. 

"  For  shame !  Are  you  cowards  to  turn  tail  at 
the  first  blow  from  the  heretic  English?  Your 
ammunition  is  here,  and  I  bring  seven  hundred 
reenforcements.  At  them  again  for  King  and 
Colony!" 

The  retreating  line  halted  and  faced  about  with 
a  shout  and  poured  into  the  oncoming  ranks  a 
fire  that  caused  them  to  waver. 

"  Once  more  and  they  will  run,"  came  the 
cheering  voice  of  the  Governor. 

They  obeyed,  and  the  enemy's  line  halted  and 
slowly  began  to  recede.  Captain  Bordeleau  stood 
blankly  staring  at  the  burly  form  of  Frontenac, 
stupefied  with  surprise  and  alarm.  Why  had  the 
Governor  appeared  so  inopportunely?    He  had 

214 


A    TRAP   AND    A    BATTLE 

thought  he  was  superintending  the  fire  from  the 
citadel.  Quickly  recovering  himself,  he  started 
forward  to  urge  his  men  on  to  action.  But  the 
governor  motioned  sternly  to  him. 

"  Back  to  the  city,  whither  you  were  about  to 
lead  your  force.  You  are  wanted  here  no  longer," 
he  said  angrily.  Then  turning  to  two  officers  who 
had  accompanied  him,  he  commanded :  "  Disarm 
him  and  bind  his  wrists.  He  is  under  arrest. 
Take  him  to  the  ChMeau  and  guard  him  carefully. 
Your  lives  depend  upon  his  safe  custody."  He 
then  advanced  to  the  front,  and  soon  his  voice 
was  again  heard  above  the  din  of  battle  calling 
on  the  soldiers  to  do  their  best. 

Captain  Bordeleau  stood  a  moment  petrified 
with  amazement  at  his  words,  then,  as  the  two 
officers  approached  him,  he  handed  them  his 
sword  and  side  arms,  and  with  a  cynical  smile 
submitted  to  the  humiliation  of  being  bound. 


16  215 


CHAPTER   XVII 

WHEREIN   A   TRAITOR   IS  BROUGHT  TO    JUSTICE 

Frontenac's  presence  among  his  troops  roused 
their  enthusiasm  to  the  highest  pitch.  The  en- 
emy rallied  again  and  again  to  the  attack,  but 
were  as  often  repulsed.  Finally  they  withdrew 
into  the  woods,  the  French  mercifully  ceasing 
their  fire  to  enable  them  to  bear  away  their 
wounded.  In  the  mean  time  the  remainder  of 
the  English  fleet  withdrew,  crippled  and  dis- 
heartened, to  the  point  where  they  had  anchored 
the  day  before.  Word  being  brought  of  the  de- 
feat of  the  land  force,  Phips  ordered  boats 
ashore  and  brought  away  the  wounded,  leaving 
the  survivors  to  camp  where  they  were,  pending 
a  council  of  war  which  he  at  once  ordered.  When 
this  was  held  a  unanimous  verdict  was  given  by 
his  officers  in  favor  of  a  prompt  withdrawal  of 

216 


A    TRAITOR 

all  forces  and  a  return  to  Boston  forthwith.  This 
plan  being  decided  upon,  all  the  forces  on  shore 
were  recalled,  and  the  disabled  vessels  moved  a 
couple  of  leagues  farther  down  the  river  in  order 
that  the  work  of  repairing  the  ships  sufficiently 
to  render  them  seaworthy  might  be  undertaken 
unmolested. 

At  the  withdrawal  of  the  enemy,  all  Quebec 
rejoiced.  Bells  were  rung  and  at  night  bonfires 
were  lighted  around  which  the  hardy  trappers 
(the  coureurs-de-bois) ,  excited  by  joy  and 
brandy,  danced  and  shouted.  The  cathedral 
was  filled  with  thankful  worshipers,  while  the 
choir  sang  a  Te  Deum  in  gratitude  for  the  de- 
liverance of  the  city.  A  plentiful  dinner  was 
served  to  all  the  officers  in  the  evening,  at  which 
the  Governor,  flushed  with  pride  and  success, 
presided. 

The  three  boys  were  entertained  in  the  cozy 
back  room  at  Ormesson's  house  until  a  late  hour, 
listening  to  his  recital  of  the  different  events  of 
the  day.  The  trader  seemed  overflowing  with 
good  spirits,  and  showed  his  affection  for  the 

217 


COMRADES    THREE 

brothers  by  clapping  them  on  the  back  at  fre- 
quent intervals,  and  every  now  and  then  giving 
each  a  bearish  hug.  These  signs  of  joy  were  in- 
terspersed with  sundry  mysterious  winks  and 
chuckles  that  the  boys  were  at  first  disposed  to 
interpret  as  the  manifestation  of  over-indulgence 
in  wine.  But,  noticing  the  fact  that  he  barely 
touched  his  glass  during  the  entire  evening, 
they  were  at  a  loss  to  account  for  his  unusual 
merriment.  When  they  finally  separated  for  the 
night,  he  approached  Pierre  and  Jean  and  throw- 
ing an  arm  affectionately  about  each  he  said, 
addressing  Frangois: 

"  To-day  has  been  a  great  day  for  New  France. 
To-morrow  will  be  a  greater  one  for  these  two 
friends  of  ours."  With  which  enigmatical  re- 
mark he  bade  them  good  night. 

In  the  morning  the  streets  of  Quebec  were 
thronged  by  an  excited  crowd.  A  rumor  had 
somehow  spread  about  that  Captain  Bordeleau 
had  been  detected  in  an  act  of  treason  during  the 
battle  of  the  previous  day,  and  that  he  was  to 
be  tried  before  the  council  that  morning  at  ten. 

218 


A    TRAITOR 

The  square  in  front  of  the  Chateau  was  packed 
as  the  hour  approached.  The  rumor  was  con- 
firmed by  the  sight  of  the  different  members 
of  the  council  making  their  way  toward  the 
Chateau. 

Finally  four  soldiers  appeared  leading  the 
accused  from  the  house  where  he  had  been  con- 
fined to  the  place  of  trial.  As  he  passed,  the 
people  crowded  near,  and  angry  murmurs  and 
jeers  arose  as  he  proceeded.  Between  the  sol- 
diers the  man  walked,  his  arms  bound  and  his 
eyes  cast  upon  the  ground.  His  face  was  pale 
and  bore  a  mingled  look  of  fear  and  anger  upon 
it.  As  the  taunts  of  the  populace  greeted  his 
ears  he  flushed  and  a  sneer  appeared  upon  his 
countenance.  Only  once  did  he  look  up.  Then 
as  his  glance  fell  upon  the  assembled  people,  his 
eyes  chanced  to  rest  upon  the  face  of  an  Indian 
standing  quietly  among  the  excited  throng.  A 
look  of  recognition  flashed  between  them,  the 
officer's  lips  parted  as  though  to  speak,  but  he 
closed  them  without  uttering  a  sound  and  passed 
thoughtfully  on  with  lowered  eyes. 

219 


COMRADES    THREE 

Within  the  council  chamber  at  the  Chateau 
preparations  for  the  trial  had  been  completed. 
About  a  long  table  in  the  middle  of  the  room  sat 
the  members  of  the  council,  stem  and  solemn- 
looking,  as  befitted  the  occasion.  At  the  head, 
seated  in  his  high-backed  chair  of  state,  was  the 
Governor,  his  brow  dark  and  foreboding.  About 
the  room  stood  many  officers.  At  one  side,  partly 
■hidden  by  those  standing  up,  Ormesson,  in  com- 
pany with  the  two  brothers,  sat  on  a  low  bench. 

The  prisoner  was  led  in,  his  arms  unbound, 
and  he  was  shown  to  his  allotted  position.  Fron- 
tenac  arose. 

"  Captain  Bordeleau,"  he  began  in  a  cold,  hard 
voice,  "  you  stand  here  accused  of  high  treason ; 
of  attempting  to  deliver  the  city  to  the  enemy; 
of  betraying  the  colony  for  English  gold." 

The  accused  man  started  at  these  words.  He 
had  not  been  informed  of  any  reason  for  his 
arrest,  and  had  supposed  that  the  utmost  against 
him  would  be  a  charge  of  cowardice  on  the  field 
of  battle.    He  trembled  in  spite  of  himself. 

The  Governor  continued : 
220 


A    TRAITOR 

"In  detail  your  accusation  is  as  follows," 
Here  he  gave  in  full  the  various  steps  in  the 
treasonable  plot.  When  he  finished  Captain 
Bordeleau  opened  his  mouth  and  said,  with  an 
effort  to  appear  at  ease :  "  And  who,  pray,  is 
my  accuser?  Has  the  enemy  volunteered  this 
strange  piece  of  information  1  I  wonder  at  your 
giving  credence  to  anything  coming  from  such 
a  source." 

"  It  is  not  from  English  lips  that  you  shall  hear 
the  first  testimony,  but  from  French,"  replied 
the  governor.  He  motioned  to  Jean,  who  arose 
and  came  forward  beside  the  table. 

At  sight  of  his  nephew,  whom  he  supposed  to 
be  at  that  moment  safe  in  the  hands  of  the  red- 
skins many  leagues  distant,  if  indeed  he  were 
alive  at  all,  the  prisoner  started  back  in  undis- 
guised surprise.  Jean,  a  good  deal  abashed  at 
speaking  before  this  assembly,  told  in  a  simple, 
straightforward  manner  the  history  of  the  con- 
versation overheard  at  the  stern  of  the  English 
flagship.  When  he  finished  a  murmur  of  aston- 
ishment ran  around  the  group  of  officers.    A 

221 


COMRADES    THREE 

moment's  silence  followed.  With  an  effort  Cap- 
tain Bordeleau  smiled : 

"  My  nephew,  who  ran  away  from  my  friendly 
roof,  I  see  has  come  back.  In  return  for  my  pre- 
vious care  and  protection  he  brings  you  this  im- 
probable story.  Fearing  my  anger  because  of 
his  escapade  he  strives  to  injure  me.  I  have  no 
fear  that  he  will  be  believed.  My  reputation,  I 
flatter  myself,  is  secure  against  any  lies  this 
young  cub  may  tell.  I  presume  you  will  go  on  to 
claim  that  the  appointment  mentioned  in  his  fan- 
ciful tale  was  kept  by  me.  Perchance  you  have 
a  witness  who  will  testify  that  he  was  present  at 
the  mythical  meeting  ? "  and  the  speaker,  some- 
what reassured,  looked  at  the  Governor  with  an 
ironical  smile. 

"  I  have,"  was  the  answer,  delivered  in  such  a 
menacing  tone  that  the  prisoner's  smile  died 
quickly  away,  and  a  look  of  alarm  took  its  place. 

"  Produce  him,"  he  managed  to  articulate 
half-defiantly. 

"  He  stands  before  you,"  was  the  calm  reply. 
Frontenac  then  gave  his  testimony  regarding  his 

222 


A    TRAITOR 

visit  to  the  cave  and  the  words  overheard  there. 
After  him  spoke  the  officer  who  had  been  present, 
and  then  Jacques  Ormesson. 

As  Captain  Bordeleau  listened,  his  knees  grew 
unsteady  and  smote  against  each  other  and  his 
hands  trembled.  The  company  before  him  be- 
came one  blurred  mass  of  faces;  a  roaring 
sounded  in  his  ears.  He  struggled  unsuccess- 
fully to  regain  his  composure.  The  last  blow 
was  struck  as  Frontenac,  reaching  down  beneath 
the  table,  produced  a  bag  of  money  and  a  roll  of 
papers,  which  he  threw  down  in  front  of  the  pris- 
oner. "  There  is  the  gold  we  heard  you  count 
and  the  bills  you  so  carefully  examined.  Your 
house  was  searched  last  night,  and  they  were 
found  in  a  drawer  of  your  private  desk.  Each 
member  of  the  council  was  requested  to  pass 
your  home  on  the  way  here  and  note  the  white 
cross  upon  the  door.  You  all  saw  it,  did  you  not, 
messieurs  ?  "  Each  member  nodded.  Frontenac 
then  called  one  of  the  soldiers  who  had  aided  in 
the  defense  of  the  ford.  He  testified  as  to  the 
order  to  retreat  after  the  first  volley. 

223 


COMRADES    THREE 

Completely  crushed,  Captain  Bordeleau  sank 
into  a  chair  amid  an  accusing  silence.  In  a  mo- 
ment he  had  gathered  his  remaining  energies 
together  and  sprang  to  his  feet  shouting :  "  It  is 
a  lie,  a  false,  wicked  lie,  a  plot  of  some  enemy  to 
ruin  me.  You  surely  cannot  believe  this  atro- 
cious thing  of  me,  who  have  lived  so  long  among 
you  all  without  reproach."  Eagerly  he  ad- 
dressed with  a  look  the  faces  of  the  council. 
Reading  in  the  eyes  of  each  one  only  cold  disbe- 
lief of  his  protestations,  he  gave  a  convulsive 
gasp,  then  with  a  supreme  effort  drew  himself 
up  and  looked  in  silence  for  a  moment  on  all 
about  him,  and  finally  broke  into  a  discordant 
laugh. 

"Ha!  Ha!  Ha!  The  game  is  played  and  I 
have  lost.  It  is  a  risk  we  all  must  run  who  gam- 
ble with  fate.  But  tell  me,  messieurs,  was  it  not 
a  pretty  game,  and  was  not  the  stake  worthy! 
Think  of  it,  eleven  thousand  louis,  more  money 
than  this  impoverished  Colony  has  seen  in  many 
years  all  told !  Had  I  succeeded  I  should  not  be 
here  to-day,  but  safe  on  my  way  to  enjoy  the 

224 


A    TRAITOR 

reward  of  my  ingenuity.  How  could  I  foresee 
that  that  sneaking  brat " — here  he  cast  a  malevo- 
lent glance  at  Jean — "  was  listening  outside  the 
cabin  window.  However,  I  nearly  succeeded, 
and  failed  through  no  fault  of  my  own.  There 
is  some  comfort  in  that.  Come,  your  Excellency, 
let  us  finish  with  this  business.  I  am  weary,  and 
our  interview  is  beginning  to  bore  me."  The 
man  ceased  speaking  and,  folding  his  arms, 
awaited  the  further  action  of  the  council  with  im- 
passive features. 

Frontenac  then  proceeded  to  the  vote.  As  he 
called  the  name  of  each  member  of  the  council,  he 
arose,  bowed,  and  answered  "Guilty!"  When 
all  had  finished,  the  prisoner,  bowing  with  mock 
solemnity  at  the  Governor,  exclaimed,  "  And  I, 
too,  say  '  Guilty ' !  " 

The  Governor,  not  noticing  his  insolence,  pro- 
ceeded to  his  final  duty.  "  I  hereby  sentence 
you  to  be  led  to  the  Place  d'Armes  at  noon 
to-morrow  in  the  presence  of  your  fellow- 
townsmen,  and  after  being  degraded  from 
your  rank,  shot.     So  may  the  punishment  of 

225 


COMRADES    THREE 

this  abominable  crime  prove  a  warning 
to  all." 

After  a  moment's  silence  Frontenac  turned  to 
the  council  and  oflBcers  and  said : 

"I  have  kept  back  another  accusation  lest  I 
should  seem  to  prejudice  your  minds  against  the 
prisoner  before  the  verdict  was  rendered.  Had 
he  been  held  innocent  of  the  crime  of  treason  I 
should  have  preferred  other  charges  against 
him — that  of  abduction  of  his  two  nephews,  and 
connivance  at  their  probable  destruction." 

He  thereupon  related  briefly  the  history  of  the 
seizure  of  the  boys,  their  terrible  experiences 
and  escape,  ending  with : 

"  You  thus  see  the  character  of  the  man.  He 
who  would  not  hesitate  to  destroy  his  own  flesh 
and  blood  would  hardly  stop  at  the  betrayal  of 
his  king." 

Captain  Bordeleau  burst  into  a  roar  of  mock- 
ing laughter.  "  Ma  foil  Your  Excellency  does 
not  know  all,  for  all  your  wisdom.  The  brats 
were  in  my  way  and  I  removed  them.  It  seems 
I  was  not  entirely  successful.   However,  I  did  the 

226 


A    TRAITOR 

same  thing  with  their  father  three  years  ago,  and 
succeeded  admirably,  for  he,  at  least,  will  never 
come  back,"  and  as  he  was  led  away  he  still  shook 
with  hysterical  mirth,  the  sounds  of  which  sent 
a  thrill  of  horror  through  the  startled  spectators. 


227 


CHAPTER   XVIII 

DEPICTS  A  GREAT  SURPRISE,  WHICH  IS  FOLLOWED  BY 
AN    UNEXPECTED   TRAGEDY 

The  strain  on  the  two  brothers  at  the  trial  had 
been  severe,  and  when  it  was  all  over  they  were 
glad  to  seek  again  the  welcome  quiet  and  retire- 
ment of  the  trader's  home.  Jacques  Ormesson's 
unselfish  good  nature  was  much  in  evidence,  for, 
after  spending  an  hour  with  Pierre  and  Jean 
in  an  endeavor  to  divert  their  minds  from  the 
trying  scene  they  had  just  witnessed,  he  hastened 
off  to  the  house  of  the  doctor  to  inquire  concern- 
ing the  condition  of  the  sick  stranger.  His  in- 
terview here  seemed  satisfactory,  for  he  left 
smiling,  and  in  an  unusual  good  humor,  going 
directly  to  the  Chateau.  The  Governor  evidently 
enjoyed  his  call,  for  he  remained  there  nearly  an 
hour,  and  when  he  left  he  promised  to  return  at 
two. 

228 


A    GREAT    SURPRISE 

After  he  and  the  boys  had  finished  dinner,  he 
bade  Pierre  and  Jean  follow  him  to  the  Chateau. 
Arriving  there  he  left  them  in  one  of  the  ante- 
rooms, asking  them  to  wait.  Passing  on  to  the 
Governor's  room  he  found  him  seated  alone,  ex- 
pecting him.  Presently  a  knock  was  heard  at 
the  door.  It  was  opened  and  two  soldiers 
marched  in  leading  Captain  Bordeleau  between 
them.  Having  placed  him  in  a  chair  with  his 
back  to  the  door,  in  obedience  to  Frontenac's  sig- 
nal they  withdrew.  The  prisoner  looked  at  the 
two  men  before  him. 

"Well,  your  Excellency,  what  new  scene  of 
pleasure  have  you  prepared  for  me?  I  trust 
it  will  be  more  interesting  than  that  of  this 
morning." 

Frontenac  frowned  sternly  and  remained 
silent.  Some  minutes  passed.  A  sound  was 
heard  outside  and  another  knock  was  heard. 
The  Governor  opened  the  door  himself  and  admit- 
ted the  doctor  and  the  sick  stranger.  The  lat- 
ter had  improved  wonderfully  in  appearance. 
His  hair  had  been  cut,  his  face  shaved,  and  he 

229 


COMRADES    THREE 

was  attired  in  well-fitting  clothes.  His  walk  be- 
trayed no  physical  weakness.  Only  the  dazed 
look  and  roving,  careless  eye  showed  that  his 
mental  state  was  still  abnormal. 

The  Governor  took  him  by  the  arm  and  led  him 
around  so  as  to  face  the  prisoner,  saying  at  the 
same  time: 

"  Behold  some  of  your  wicked  work ! " 

Captain  Bordeleau  glanced  at  the  stranger  in- 
differently, then  suddenly  his  gaze  became  fixed 
and  he  uttered  a  cry  of  terror,  springing  up  so 
quickly  as  to  send  the  chair  backward  to  the  floor 
with  a  crash. 

"  Antoine !    You  alive !  "  he  exclaimed. 

The  sick  man  looked  dully  at  him  for  an  in- 
stant, then  to  the  onlookers  there  was  visible  a 
new  light  in  the  eye,  a  faint  glimpse  of  return- 
ing reason.  The  prisoner's  cry,  his  startled 
voice,  his  quick  movement,  the  sound  of  the  fall- 
ing chair,  all  combined  to  produce  a  powerful 
impression  on  the  weakened  brain.  The  strug- 
gling gleam  became  stronger,  until  suddenly 
there  flashed  the  full  light  of  intelligent  recogni- 

230 


A    GREAT    SURPRISE 

tion  across  his  face.  Passing  his  hand  across  his 
brow  with  a  troubled  look,  he  said  in  a  puzzled 
tone:  "Brother  Louis!  It  is  you.  When  did 
you  return?  You  have  been  away,  have  you 
not?" 

Then  noticing  the  others  he  greeted  them: 

"  Your  Excellency,  too.  I  have  not  seen  you 
for  some  time.  Have  I  not  been  well  ?  And  my 
good  friend  Ormesson  here  also." 

The  little  doctor  in  the  background  was  un- 
noticed, but  he  rubbed  his  hands  in  delight.  His 
plan  of  causing  the  two  brothers  to  meet  face  to 
face  had  resulted  in  a  shock  to  the  weakened 
mind  that  had  rolled  back  the  curtain  of  forget- 
fulness,  and  his  patient  had  taken  up  the  thread 
of  memory  again  at  a  point  more  than  a  year 
back.  The  terrible  experiences  and  suffering 
that  had  intervened  were  mercifully  forgotten. 

The  prisoner  in  the  mean  time  had  kept  his 
eye  upon  his  brother,  watching  the  various  stages 
of  his  returning  memory.  A  glance  at  his 
scarred  face  and  distorted  hands  revealed  to  him 
the  fearful  experiences  through  which  he  had 
16  231 


COMRADES    THREE 

passed.  For  the  first  time  since  his  trial  in  the 
morning  did  he  lose  his  insolent,  cynical  air,  and 
a  look  of  concern,  almost  of  remorse,  took  its 
place. 

Ormesson  whispered  to  Frontenac,  who  nod- 
ded, and  with  an  engaging  air  invited  him  who 
was  indeed  Antoine  Bordeleau  to  accompany 
him.  He  did  so  and  followed  the  Governor  who, 
going  to  a  door  leading  into  the  room  in  which 
Ormesson  had  left  the  boys,  opened  it,  and  mo- 
tioned to  him  to  enter,  saying  that  there  were 
two  of  his  friends  there  whom  he  would  be 
pleased  to  see.  As  soon  as  he  had  done  so, 
Frontenac  quietly  closed  the  door. 

For  a  moment  there  was  a  silence,  then  a  great 
cry  of  joy  and :  "  Pierre !  Pierre !  My  little 
Jean ! "  came  to  the  ears  of  the  listeners  on  the 
other  side  of  the  door,  followed  by  glad  boyish 
shouts,  and  then  a  mujffled  sobbing.  Ormesson 
grinned  with  delight.  The  little  doctor  mur- 
mured reassuringly :  "  Joy  does  not  kill,  it  re- 
vives." 

A  tear  of  sympathy  and  pleasure  at  their  re- 
232 


A    GREAT    SURPRISE 

united  happiness  glistened  in  the  good  Governor's 
eyes,  but  they  grew  hard  and  stem  again  as  he 
summoned  the  guard  to  lead  Captain  Bordeleau 
back  to  his  cell. 

The  prisoner  raised  his  eyes,  pleading  now 
instead  of  insolent  and  defiant. 

"  One  moment,  your  Excellency,  if  you  please. 
I  know  I  have  no  right  to  ask  for  favors  at  your 
hands,  but  recollect  that  I  have  but  a  few  hours 
to  live,  and  grant  me  two  requests." 

The  man's  apparently  sincere  humility  moved 
the  Governor  to  inquire  what  they  were. 

"  One  is  that  my  brother  shall  not  be  allowed 
to  see  me  again  before — before  noon  to-morrow. 
The  worst  of  men  have  some  slight  remnants  of 
conscience  left.  I  could  not  bear  to  meet  his  eyes 
again  now  that  he  has  regained  his  reason,  know- 
ing what  agony  he  has  endured  through  my 
fault.  He  does  not  yet  remember  any  of  those 
hideous  experiences,  and  does  not  know  the 
wrong  I  have  done  him." 

The  Governor  bowed.  "It  shall  be  as  you 
wish." 

233 


COMRADES    THREE 

"  The  second  request  is  suggested  by  the 
thought  of  the  meeting  in  yonder  room  between 
parent  and  sons.  I,  too,  have  a  son.  No  wonder 
you  all  start,  but  it  is  true  nevertheless.  When 
I  first  came  from  France,  in  my  wandering  in 
the  wilderness  I  met  an  Indian  maiden,  beauti- 
ful and  loving.  We  were  married.  A  son  was 
bom.  The  mother  died  soon  after.  I  refused 
to  acknowledge  the  relationship  openly,  but  have 
secretly  cared  for  the  boy  all  these  years.  He 
grew  up  among  his  own  people  and  has  fre- 
quently visited  me  here  in  Quebec.  You  know 
of  him.  The  French  call  him  *  The  Rat.'  He 
has  often  caused  you  trouble,  for  he  has  his 
father's  taste  for  intrigue.  He  is  the  only  one 
of  my  flesh  and  blood  I  can  look  upon,  knowing 
I  have  never  harmed  him.  He  is  the  only  one 
who  can  look  upon  me  without  shrinking  in  hate 
or  disgust.  He  is  now  in  the  city.  I  saw  him 
in  the  crowd  this  morning  on  my  way  to  the 
Chateau.  I  know  where  he  can  be  found.  I 
crave  a  meeting  with  him  that  I  may  say  fare- 
well." 

234 


A   GREAT   SURPRISE 

The  Governor  was  touched  in  spite  of  himself. 
He  gave  his  consent.  The  guard  was  called  in 
and  after  a  murmured  word  of  thanks  the  pris- 
ones  was  led  away. 

By  the  Governor's  orders  a  messenger  was 
dispatched  to  the  address  given  by  the  prisoner, 
and  in  a  short  time  he  returned  accompanied  by 
the  Indian,  who  was  none  other  than  "  The  Rat," 
the  leader  of  the  party  who  had  carried  the  boys 
off.  Fifteen  minutes  was  allowed  for  the  inter- 
view, which  was  held  in  the  cell  of  the  con- 
demned, a  soldier  being  present.  The  time  was 
spent  in  earnest  conversation,  and  at  its  expira- 
tion the  Indian  took  his  final  leave.  Captain  Bor- 
deleau  giving  him  a  parting  embrace. 

Ormesson  found  the  boys  and  their  father  in 
the  happy  enjoyment  of  each  other's  society. 
The  joy  of  the  father  had  been  tempered  by  the 
news  of  his  wife's  death,  but  he  manfully  strove 
to  control  his  feelings  that  the  pleasure  of  the 
boys  should  not  be  lessened.  All  three  soon  set 
out  for  the  trader's  house  to  sup,  and  on  the  way 
Ormesson  took  the  opportunity  of  whispering  to 

235 


COMRADES    THREE 

both  Pierre  and  Jean  that  they  must  not  mention 
their  uncle's  plight  to  their  father,  as  it  was  not 
deemed  advisable  by  the  doctor  for  him  to  ex- 
perience any  further  deep  emotion  that  day.  A 
short  period  of  rest  must  elapse  before  he  could 
learn  all.  It  was  with  this  end  in  view  that  the 
trader  separated  them  all  at  an  early  hour,  send- 
ing them  to  bed  to  recover  from  the  excitement 
of  the  past  twelve  hours.  On  parting  with 
them,  Ormesson  playfully  pinched  Jean's  ear 
and  said: 

"  Did  I  not  say  last  night  that  to-day  would 
be  a  great  day  for  you  two  1 " 

"  Yes,"  replied  the  lad  with  a  happy  sigh.  "  It 
has  been  the  very  greatest  we  have  ever  known." 

As  the  noon  hour  approached  on  the  following 
morning,  the  Place  d'Armes,  the  open  square  in 
front  of  the  Chateau,  was  filled  with  a  jostling, 
excited  mob,  eager  to  witness  the  execution  of 
the  faithless  officer.  A  number  of  soldiers  were 
on  guard  keeping  the  crowd  back  from  the  fatal 
spot.  At  the  first  stroke  of  twelve  from  the 
great  clock  of  the  Chateau,  the  grim  procession 

236 


"A  bit  of  steel  flashed  in  the  air." 


A   GREAT   SURPRISE 

started  out  from  the  fort  in  its  slow  progress  to 
the  place  appointed.  As  before,  the  condemned 
man  proceeded  between  four  soldiers,  two  of 
whom  walked  about  six  feet  ahead  of  him  and 
the  other  two  six  feet  behind.  He  wore  his  full 
uniform  and  was  not  bound  in  any  way.  His 
appearance  was  greeted  by  yells  of  execration 
from  the  throng,  to  which  he  paid  no  attention, 
keeping  his  chin  down,  but  allowing  his  eyes  to 
rove  furtively  over  the  near-by  faces.  Finally, 
when  about  halfway  across  the  Place  he  caught 
sight  of  the  familiar  face  of  "  The  Rat "  stand- 
ing stolidly  in  the  front  rank  of  the  onlookers, 
wrapped  in  a  dirty  blanket.  The  prisoner  kept 
his  eyes  fixed  upon  the  savage's  face  as  he  ad- 
vanced along  his  path. 

When  directly  opposite  him  and  but  a  few  feet 
distant,  the  Indian  made  a  sudden  movement  of 
his  arm,  and  a  bit  of  steel  flashed  in  the  air.  He 
had  tossed  a  dagger  to  the  condemned  man,  who 
deftly  caught  it,  and  before  the  nearest  soldier 
could  move  to  stop  him,  plunged  it  into  his  own 
breast  with  the  cry,  "I've  cheated  you  all  at 

237 


COMRADES    THREE 

last,"  and  fell  dead  upon  the  pavement.  In  an 
instant  all  was  confusion,  during  which  the  In- 
dian slipped  off  through  the  press  and  could  not 
be  found  later,  when  all  Quebec  was  carefully 
searched  for  him. 

Alone  in  a  room  at  the  trader^s  house  the 
father  and  the  two  boys  awaited  solemnly  the 
striking  of  the  hour.  That  morning  Ormesson 
had  quietly  told  Antoine  Bordeleau  a  full  history 
of  his  brother's  crimes  and  the  fate  he  was  about 
to  meet.  At  the  first  stroke  of  twelve  the  three 
knelt  and  continued  in  silent  prayer  for  the  man 
who  had  used  them  all  so  ill,  straining  their  ears 
to  catch  the  sound  of  the  shot  that  was  never 
fired. 


238 


CHAPTER    XIX 

A   CHAPTER   OF   MERITED   REWARDS   AND   HAPPINESS 

The  day  after  this  tragic  event  another  meet- 
ing of  the  council  was  called.  The  three  boys, 
together  with  Antoine  Bordeleau  and  Jacques 
Ormesson,  were  bidden  to  attend.  On  arriving 
at  the  ChMeau  they  were  asked  to  wait  in  an 
adjoining  room.  An  hour  passed,  and  they  were 
beginning  to  wonder  at  the  delay,  when  word  was 
received  from  Frontenac  for  them  to  enter  the 
council  chamber.  They  did  so  and  quietly  took 
their  seats,  wondering  what  was  about  to  take 
place.  They  had  not  long  to  wait,  for  the  Gov- 
ernor spoke  to  them  in  a  kindly  tone : 

"  The  last  time  some  of  you  were  present  in 
this  room  you  beheld  this  honorable  body  as- 
sembled in  a  judicial  capacity.  But  it  exercises 
other  powers.  It  can  reward  as  well  punish. 
Antoine  Bordeleau,"  he  continued  after  a  pause, 
addressing  the  father,  "  the  council  has  investi- 

239 


COMRADES    THREE 

gated  the  claim  of  Captain  Bordeleau,  your 
brother,  that  the  Indian  known  to  us  as  '  The 
Rat'  was  his  son.  This  has  been  disproved, 
and  it  was  found  to  be  only  a  ruse  of  the  pris- 
oner to  gain  an  interview  with  the  savage  and 
instruct  him  regarding  the  part  he  was  to  play 
in  his  intended  suicidal  act.  You  are  therefore 
the  nearest  living  heir  to  the  deceased.  The 
council  hereby  confirms  you  in  your  heirship  and 
grants  you  immediate  possession  of  his  house 
and  contents  and  whatever  other  property  be- 
longed to  him  at  his  death.  We  have  learned  of 
the  hardships  you  have  undergone,  the  result  of 
your  brother's  baseness,  and  as  an  expression  of 
our  sympathy  and  regret  we  have  accorded  you 
special  trading  privileges,  here  detailed,  which 
will  be  of  future  value  to  you."  And  he  held 
out  a  paper  confirming  all  that  he  had  said. 

Antoine  Bordeleau  received  this  with  a  bow, 
together  with  many  words  of  gratitude. 

"  To  you  three  lads,"  Frontenac  continued, 
looking  admiringly  at  the  boys,  "  the  King  prob- 
ably owes  the  preservation  of  his  fair  city  of 

240 


REWARDS    AND    HAPPINESS 

Quebec.  Through  your  alertness,  activity,  and 
deep  loyalty  to  duty  and  honor,  even  though  it 
involved  the  disgrace  of  a  near  kinsman,  the 
enemy  has  been  repulsed.  His  Majesty  shall  be 
fully  informed  of  the  important  part  you  have 
played  in  the  events  of  the  past  few  days,  and 
I  shall  leave  it  to  him  to  reward  you  according 
to  his  royal  pleasure. 

"  The  council  has  learned  of  the  existence  of 
the  brotherhood,  the  bonds  of  which  have  been 
so  successfully  tested.  It  has  also  heard  with 
pleasure  of  your  military  aspirations.  Such 
courage,  such  faithfulness  to  each  other  and  loy- 
alty to  the  King  must  not  be  wasted.  They  are 
the  qualities  that  make  the  finest  soldiers  and 
most  worthy  subjects.  Although  you  are  all  too 
young  to  enter  the  regular  service  at  present, 
I  have  created  the  posts  of  Colonial  scouts  for 
you  to  fill.  Your  experience  in  woodcraft  will 
make  it  possible  for  you  to  render  the  King  and 
Colony  invaluable  service  during  the  troublous 
times  we  have  entered  upon.  Your  pay  will  be 
each  that  of  a  lieutenant  to  compensate  you  for 

241 


COMRADES    THREE 

the  extra  risks  you  will  be  called  upon  to  run. 
In  addition  Frangois  will  receive  a  gift  of  a  hun- 
dred louis  to  indemnify  his  father  for  the  loss 
of  his  services  at  home.  May  you  all  bring  to 
your  new  work  the  same  earnestness  and  devo- 
tion you  have  shown  hitherto." 

The  boys  were  overpowered  at  the  good  news 
that  opened  to  them  the  careers  they  long  had 
coveted.  They  murmured  their  thanks  half- 
bashfuUy,  but  their  beaming  countenances  told 
better  than  words  of  their  great  joy. 

"  And  now,  Ormesson,  my  friend,"  and  Fron- 
tenac  glanced  at  him  with  a  look  of  deep  feeling, 
"  what  can  we  do  for  you?  Your  interest  in  these 
lads,  your  counsel,  your  unswerving  loyalty,  have 
all  contributed  to  the  success  of  their  efforts." 

"  Thanks,  your  Excellency,"  replied  the  trader 
in  a  modest,  deprecating  tone;  "what  little  I 
have  done  needs  no  reward.  My  affection  has 
prompted  me  to  aid  them  in  whatever  way  I  was 
able.  Their  evident  regard  for  me  is  ample  rec- 
ompense. What  I  have  done  for  my  King  is  but 
the  duty  of  every  loyal  subject.    The  knowledge 

242 


REWARDS    AND    HAPPINESS 

of  having  helped  in  some  small  degree  in  the 
preservation  of  his  beloved  Colony  is  more  pre- 
cious to  me  than  any  material  compensation.  I 
have  gold  suflScient  for  my  needs."  Then  with  a 
glance  at  the  boys  and  a  sigh :  "  I  crave  nothing 
your  Excellency  or  the  honorable  council  could 
give  me.  Mine  is  a  lonely  life.  I  have  few 
wants." 

"  Nobly  spoken,"  exclaimed  the  Governor,  as 
he  warmly  seized  Ormesson's  hand.  "  If  every 
heart  were  as  true  as  yours  New  France  would 
soon  be  mistress  of  a  hemisphere." 

At  ten  o'clock  that  night  the  last  meeting  of 
the  brotherhood  was  held  in  the  cave.  A  good 
fire  was  kindled,  and  soon  its  warm  glow  lighted 
up  every  part  of  its  interior.  The  adventures  of 
the  past  three  months  were  discussed,  and  eager 
plans  for  the  future  were  made.  Francois  an- 
nounced his  intention  of  returning  home  the  next 
day.  His  face  glowed  with  pleasure.  "  The  hun- 
dred louis  given  me  by  the  Governor,"  he  ex- 
plained, "  will  enable  my  father  to  buy  a  piece 
of  land  for  himself.    He  will  have  to  rent  no 

243 


COMRADES    THREE 

longer.  It  has  been  the  dream  of  his  life  to  own 
a  farm." 

A  moment  of  silence  followed.  Then  Pierre, 
who  had  been  gazing  thoughtfully  into  the  fire, 
exclaimed :  "  I  wish  the  sum  had  been  a  hundred 
times  larger,  for  I  feel  that  to  you  alone  the  suc- 
cess of  the  brotherhood  is  due.  Without  your 
aid  we  could  have  done  nothing." 

"  Yes,  indeed,"  chimed  in  Jean ;  "  had  you  not 
delivered  us  from  the  hands  of  the  savages,  we 
should  never  have  returned." 

"  Nonsense !  "  replied  Francois.  "  Had  it  not 
been  for  your  insisting  we  would  have  left  the 
sick  prisoner  behind  in  his  hut,  and  you  would 
not  now  both  be  rejoicing  in  your  restored 
father.  Had  it  not  been  for  Pierre's  help  we 
never  could  have  carried  him  away.  One  of  us 
has  done  no  more  than  the  other  two.  Did  we 
not  all  agree  to  be  loyal  and  true  to  each  other? 
We  have  all  tried  to  keep  our  promise,  that  is  all. 
We  have  learned  to  know  and  esteem  each  other. 
Our  experiences  have  taught  us  how  much  better 
an  unselfish  care  for  others  is  than  a  thoughtless 

244 


REWARDS    AND    HAPPINESS 

concern  for  self  alone.  If  we  have  learned  this, 
the  brotherhood  has  been  a  success.  Let  us  hope 
our  past  association  is  but  the  beginning;  that 
in  the  future  opportunities  for  mutual  help  in 
time  of  peril  may  increase  rather  than  diminish. 
Then  will  our  friendship  be  the  greatest  thing 
in  our  lives." 

A  week  passed  and  found  the  boys  and  their 
father  comfortably  settled  in  the  large  house 
Captain  Bordeleau  had  formerly  occupied, 
whose  gloom  was  already  partly  dispelled  by 
'  the  happiness  and  joy  they  had  brought  into  it. 
Night  had  come,  and  they  were  gathered  about 
the  broad  fireplace  in  which  were  heaped  the 
flaming  logs  that  made  the  lighted  candles  un- 
necessary. With  them  sat  their  friend  and  con- 
stant visitor,  Jacques  Ormesson,  one  boy  on  each 
side  of  him  in  affectionate  proximity.  Conver- 
sation had  flagged,  and  that  moment  had  come 
which  is  only  possible  among  close  friends,  when 
no  necessity  for  talk  was  felt,  but  each  followed 
silently  the  leading  of  his  own  thoughts,  yet 
keeping  in  conscious  communion  with  the  others. 

245 


COMRADES    THREE 

Antoine  Bordeleau  was  the  first  to  break  the 
silence. 

^^Mon  ami,^^  said  he,  addressing  the  trader, 
"  my  cup  of  joy  is  almost  filled  to-night.  Two 
things  only  are  wanting.  One  is  that  you,  who 
have  done  so  much  for  us  and  whom  we  all  love, 
should  lack  some  deep  personal  happiness  such 
as  we  ourselves  enjoy  in  our  reunited  lives." 

The  trader  smiled  dreamily,  still  watching  the 
fire,  and  a  shadow  of  loneliness  passed  over  his 
face.  "  Who  knows,"  he  murmured ;  "  perhaps 
™y  joy  is  on  the  way;  perhaps  it  is  already 
knocking  at  the  door !  " 

"  The  second  thing,"  continued  Bordeleau,  his 
voice  trembling  with  rising  emotion,  "  is  that  her 
face  is  missing,  she  who  so  nobly  suffered  in  the 
days  of  our  distress  and  was  taken  ere  the  dawn 
came — my  wife."  Then  going  to  the  desk  he 
opened  a  drawer  and  taking  out  a  small  object 
returned  to  the  firelight.  "I  found  this  in  a 
box  of  my  effects  that  had  been  untouched  by 
my  brother.  It  is  a  miniature  painted  just  after 
our  marriage,  a  likeness  of  my  Angelique." 

246 


REWARDS    AND    HAPPINESS 

At  the  name  Ormesson's  heart  gave  a  painful 
throb  of  recollection.  Taking  the  picture  he 
leaned  toward  the  fire  to  examine  it,  then  as  his 
eyes  scanned  the  tiny  features  he  leaped  to  his 
feet  with  a  cry: 

"  Your  Angelique  ?  It  is  my  Angelique,  too, 
my  long-lost  and  beloved  sister !  " 

Antoine  Bordeleau  started  and  stared  incredu- 
lously at  the  speaker. 

"  Ormesson  —  Ormesson — "  he  stammered ; 
"  the  name  was  so  common — I  never  thought 
when  I  met  you  in  Quebec " 

The  trader,  overcome  with  emotion,  mur- 
mured :  "  It  was  a  runaway  match.  We  never 
knew  the  man's  name  whom  she  married." 
Then,  as  a  gleam  of  deepest  happiness  irradiated 
his  face,  he  cried : 

"  Did  I  not  say  perhaps  a  great  joy  was 
already  knocking  at  the  door?  I  was  right.  It 
has  already  come.  Behold,  to-night,"  he  con- 
tinued, as  he  extended  his  right  hand,  which  Bor- 
deleau eagerly  grasped,  "you  meet  a  brother, 
and  you,"  turning  to  the  two  astounded  boys, 
17  247 


COMRADES    THREE 

who,  beginning  to  grasp  the  truth,  rushed  into 
his  extended  arms,  "tind  an  uncle  to  take  the 
place  of  the  one  you  have  recently  lost.  While 
I — ^my  solitary  heart  overflows  with  joy,  for  I 
discover  that  I  am  no  longer  alone,  but  have 
three  bound  to  me  not  only  by  ties  of  love  but 
also  of  blood.  Ah!  Le  hon  Dieu,  He  is  so 
good ! " 


(1) 


THE   END 


248 


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A     000  133  523     1 


